Top Tender Boat Accident Attorney in Florida

Justice for Victims of Tender Boat Accidents


At Scolaro Law, we focus on representing cruise ship passengers injured in tender boat accidents. With over 100 years of combined experience and a proven track record in maritime law, our team fights relentlessly to secure justice for those harmed by negligence at sea.

What Are Tender Boat Accidents?

Tender boats ferry passengers from cruise ships to shore, especially in ports without docking infrastructure. These small vessels are essential for excursions and are frequently used—particularly for shore excursions—but they present unique risks to passengers. Whether operated by the cruise line or contracted providers, the cruise line has a duty to ensure passenger safety during boarding, disembarking, and travel. When this duty is breached, passengers may be seriously injured, and that’s where we come in.

The Legal Duty of Cruise Lines in Tender Boat Accidents

Cruise lines are legally obligated to provide safe transportation during tendering operations, regardless of whether they operate the boats directly or use third-party contractors. This responsibility includes:

  • Maintaining safe conditions on ships, docks, and tender boats.
  • Anticipating hazards such as rough weather, unstable gangways, or improper boarding methods.
  • Ensuring all tender boats and equipment are regularly inspected and properly maintained.
  • Training staff to assist passengers safely during boarding and disembarking.
  • Monitoring and enforcing compliance with safety regulations for third-party operators.

Cruise lines can be held accountable for passenger injuries when they fail to uphold these duties through poor maintenance, unsafe practices, or negligent oversight. Maritime law imposes a high duty of care on cruise lines to protect passengers from foreseeable risks during tendering operations.

Common Causes of Tender Boat Accidents

Whether the injury occurs during boarding, disembarking, or while traveling on the tender boat, we are committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve. Tender boat accidents often result from negligence or unsafe conditions, including:

Improper Boarding Methods

Unstable gangways or insufficient guidance during boarding and disembarking can lead to falls or crushing injuries. Poorly maintained docks may also pose hazards.

Rough Weather

Waves can create instability, increasing risks during boarding and travel. Cruise lines often prioritize schedules over safety by continuing tender operations in rough conditions.

Negligent Operation

Untrained or inattentive crew members may cause dangerous situations, such as improper docking or mishandling vessels in rough seas.

Poorly Maintained Tender Boats

Mechanical issues like engine failures or defective safety equipment can result in avoidable accidents.

Slippery Surfaces and Handrails

Wet, unmaintained surfaces or unsecured handrails heighten the risk of slip-and-fall injuries.

Improper Lashing

Tender boats not securely fastened to landings may shift suddenly, causing falls or crush injuries as passengers board or disembark.

If you have been involved in any of these situations, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Legal Representation for All Types of Cruise Ship Injuries

Cruise Lines we Sue

We’ve taken on some of the biggest cruise lines to fight for justice. No matter their size or influence, we stand firm to secure the fair outcomes our clients deserve.

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean
  • MSC Cruises
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Oceania Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Viking Cruises
  • Holland America Line
  • Seabourn Cruise Line
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Partner With Scolaro Law and Get the Compensation you deserve

Were You Injured in a Tender Boat Accident?

Injuries resulting from tender boat accidents can be severe and long-lasting. Common injuries include:

  • Deep Cuts and Scarring: Sudden jolts or sharp edges can cause deep lacerations.
  • Drowning: Operator error can result in a collision or a capsizing event, putting passengers at serious risk of drowning.
  • Ligament and Tendon Tears: The force of the boat’s movement or a fall can result in torn soft tissue.
  • Closed Head Injuries: Falls or unexpected jolts can lead to traumatic brain injuries.
  • Vertebral Burst Fractures and Herniated Spinal Discs: Impact from falls or the movement of the boat can result in serious back injuries.
  • Crushed Fingers, Arms, Toes, and Legs: Passengers can get trapped between the boat and landing, leading to traumatic injuries.

We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, from understanding your options to pursuing full compensation for your damages.

Do Not Suffer Alone: Scolaro Law Can Help You Win Your Personal Injury Case

Tender boat accidents can often result in life-changing injuries, requiring costly medical treatment and extended recovery periods. Many victims must also take time off from work, resulting in lost wages. Injured passengers have the legal right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering when these accidents occur due to the cruise line’s negligence.

Why Are Tender Boat Accidents So Common?

Tender boats are a vital part of cruise ship operations, especially when visiting remote islands or during shore excursions. Cruise lines often rely on tender boats for excursions that passengers have purchased—meaning these incidents occur frequently, especially when weather or operational conditions are less than ideal. As tender boats are used on almost every cruise with scheduled port stops, accidents are common, and passengers must trust that the cruise line will provide a safe and secure method of getting on and off the boat.

Your Partner in Navigating Tender Boat Accidents

Why Choose Scolaro Law for Your Tender Boat Injury Case?

Extensive Experience

With over 100 years of combined maritime law experience, our team has successfully handled countless tender boat injury cases. We navigate the complexities of maritime regulations and hold cruise lines accountable for negligence.

Proven Results

We’ve recovered over $500 million for our clients, including significant settlements in maritime injury cases. Our determination and skill ensure exceptional results, even in the most challenging cases.

Client-Centered Advocacy

Your well-being is our priority. We provide compassionate support throughout the legal process, ensuring that every client’s story is heard and justice is pursued relentlessly.

Fighting for Your Justice

If you or someone you love has suffered an injury in a tender boat accident, trust Scolaro Law to provide the required knowledge and dedication necessary to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Scolaro Law Today

If you’ve been injured, let Scolaro Law help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.

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