Cruising is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel… but the moment you step off the ship, you suddenly become a prime target for people looking to make a quick buck. I’ve seen a lot of these tricks firsthand, and I’ve heard even more stories from fellow cruisers who learned lessons the hard way.

To help you stay safe (and keep that vacation money where it belongs), here are some of the most common tourist scams you might run into at ports, online, or even before you sail — plus real-world tips to avoid becoming the next victim.

1. The Fake “Outstanding Balance” Email

Let’s start with the scam that tries to hit your wallet before you even pack your bags. Some scammers send official-looking emails claiming you owe extra port taxes or a balance on your cruise. The link looks legit, the logo looks real… but the website is a trap designed to steal your login or payment info.

How I handle it: If anything looks even slightly suspicious, I go straight to the cruise line’s official website and log in from there — never through an email link.

2. “Congratulations! You Won a Free Cruise!”

Spoiler: These messages usually show up as texts, emails, or social media ads saying you’ve won a complimentary cruise — just pay “taxes and fees.”

That “fee” is the scam. You either get nothing at all… or you get buried in upsells that end up costing more than a real cruise.

My rule: If you have to pay to claim a prize, it’s not a prize.

3. Taxi Tricks — Overcharging, Detours, and Kickbacks

This is one that almost every cruiser encounters at some point. Unlicensed taxis might give you a “special rate,” take you on the world’s longest scenic route, or drop you off at a shop where they earn a commission.

My go-to: I agree on the price before getting in. When available, I use ride apps or ask the port for official taxi stands.

4. The “Free Gift” Scam From Street Vendors

It seems harmless — a vendor offers a free necklace, charm, or trinket. The moment you accept it, the pressure begins. They’ll walk you into their shop, guilt you into a sale, or refuse to let you leave until you buy something overpriced.

Best approach: If someone tries to hand you something for free, smile, say “no thank you,” and keep moving.

5. Wrong Change Scams — Easy to Miss When You’re Rushed

Some vendors hand back less change than you’re owed, give you old currency, or use similar-looking bills to confuse you.

What I do: I always count my change in front of the person who gave it to me — and I double-check card charges before tapping.

6. Discount Excursion Scams — The Deal That Isn’t

That “half-price private tour” waiting at the port entrance can turn into a disaster. Some excursions are rushed, unprofessional, or simply vanish once you’ve paid. And if they don’t get you back before all-aboard time? The ship will not wait.

My tip: Book through the cruise line or a reputable third-party company with strong reviews and a back-to-ship guarantee.

7. The Bracelet Trick — A Classic Tourist Trap

This one pops up all around Europe and other popular cities. A friendly stranger ties a “free” bracelet on your wrist, then demands a “donation.”

Tip: Don’t let anyone put anything on you — bracelets, flowers, rosemary, photos, anything.

8. Traffic Ticket Scams — Especially With Scooter Rentals

In some ports, tourists renting scooters get stopped and told they violated a rule they’ve never heard of. The “officer” — often not real — demands cash on the spot.

My strategy: If I rent anything, I research the rules first. When possible, I stick to walking or ship-approved transportation.

9. “Hold This for Me” — The Setup

A stranger hands you something and asks you to hold it. Moments later, an accomplice accuses you of stealing or damaging their property and demands money.

Easy fix: Never hold items from strangers. If anything feels shady, step away and find an official.

10. The Bait-and-Switch Trick

This usually happens in flea markets or busy tourist plazas. The item they show you looks great. The item they bag? Not so much. By the time you realize it, you’re already back on the ship.

How to avoid it: Inspect what they put in the bag — every single time.

11. The Fake Cruise Duck / Craft Sale — A Social Media Trap

This one often starts inside cruise Facebook groups. Someone claims they can’t take their cruise and they’re selling ducks, crafts, or “pre-paid classes.”

You send the money… and they disappear.

My rule of thumb: Never send money to random people online. Scams in cruise groups are more common than people think.

12. Fake Onboard “Events” or “Classes”

A scammer creates a fake Facebook event for an onboard craft night, cocktail class, or dance session. You pay ahead of time… and the event never existed.

Tip: If it’s not listed in the official cruise planner or app, assume it’s fake.

13. Surprise “Shipping Fees” for Handcrafted Souvenirs

Sometimes you’ll see posts claiming someone is “giving away” handmade cruise merch — you only pay the shipping. The shipping fee ends up being inflated or never delivered at all.

Better option: Buy onboard or from trusted small businesses you can verify.

14. Kickback Shopping Routes

Some taxi drivers or “tour guides” take you to specific shops where they get a commission — often resulting in higher prices for you.

Solution: Tell your driver you aren’t interested in shopping stops. If they insist… pick another driver.

15. Pressure-Packed Street Markets

Some port markets can get aggressive — sellers might block your path, demand tips for photos you didn’t ask for, or use guilt to push a sale.

How I handle it: Stay polite, stay firm, and don’t be afraid to walk away.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Aware, and Enjoy Your Cruise

Most ports are safe, and most locals are kind, hardworking people who welcome visitors. But every destination has a few bad apples looking to take advantage of tourists who are relaxed, distracted, or unsure of local customs.

A little awareness goes a long way.

When you know the red flags, you can explore confidently, enjoy every minute ashore, and keep your vacation stress-free.