Carnival Guests File Lawsuit After Alleged Bedbug Infestation

A Caribbean cruise should be about sunshine, sea breezes, and relaxation. But for two Carnival guests, their dream getaway allegedly turned into an itchy nightmare — and now they’re taking the cruise line to court over what they say were bedbugs in their cabin.

The Lawsuit and What Happened Onboard

A majestic cruise ship, possibly the Carnival Horizon, glides across the serene deep blue waters of the ocean, its multiple decks and amenities highlighted under the vast, cloud-streaked sky. The vessel carves a frothy trail in the sea, showcasing the grandeur of maritime travel.

Catherine Shockley and William Maycock have filed a lawsuit against Carnival Cruise Line, claiming their February 15, 2025 voyage aboard Carnival Horizon was ruined by a bedbug infestation. The case, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on October 28, 2025, accuses Carnival of negligence and failing to properly address the issue.

According to the complaint, the couple began noticing itchy, red bites on their arms and legs just two days into their eight-night Southern Caribbean cruise from Miami. By the next morning, the bites had spread to their shoulders, hands, and faces. Shockley reportedly found live bedbugs, fecal stains, and eggs in the stateroom bedding, suggesting a possible ongoing infestation.

They claim they reported the problem to ship staff but were not moved to another cabin or offered assistance.

Carnival’s Bedbug Policy and Procedures

A person wearing gloves lifts a mattress corner and shines a flashlight on several visible bedbugs along the edge, inspecting for an infestation.

Carnival Cruise Line has a documented protocol for pest detection and treatment. It includes inspecting mattresses, bedding, carpets, and draperies for signs of bedbugs. If evidence is found, the affected cabin and surrounding rooms are chemically treated, followed by regular re-inspections for several months.

The company also performs “extensive pest control treatment” during scheduled dry dock maintenance periods. Carnival Horizon is due for its next dry dock in spring 2026, where the line says pest prevention is part of its standard maintenance process.

The Guests’ Claims and Reported Injuries

Shockley and Maycock allege that they suffered intensely itchy bites, painful welts, scarring, and loss of sleep. The lawsuit also cites emotional distress, lost property, and financial damages related to the incident.

They say they witnessed crew members fumigating nearby staterooms, which they believe indicates Carnival may have known about an ongoing issue during their sailing. The guests sought medical treatment, although it is unclear whether that occurred onboard or after disembarking.

Are Bedbugs Common on Cruise Ships?

The image shows a room steward in a blue uniform meticulously preparing a towel animal on a neatly made bed in a Carnival Breeze stateroom. The cozy and well-appointed room, with its warm lighting and inviting decor, offers a glimpse into the attentive service and charming touches that enhance the cruise experience for guests.

While reports of bedbugs occasionally make headlines, confirmed cases on cruise ships are relatively rare. Similar claims have surfaced across various lines, including an alleged incident aboard Disney Magic in July 2025.

Many social media “bedbug reports” turn out to be unsubstantiated or caused by other insects like sand fleas or mosquitoes. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bedbugs are not linked to poor cleanliness and do not transmit diseases, though their bites can be extremely uncomfortable and cause allergic reactions in some people.

Final Word

The lawsuit against Carnival Cruise Line could take months to resolve. The plaintiffs are seeking damages for medical costs, emotional harm, and property loss. Carnival has not issued any public comment beyond its stated pest control protocol.

While incidents like this make headlines, the vast majority of guests never encounter bedbugs at sea. Still, a quick cabin check can offer extra peace of mind on your next sailing.