A story shared with Crew Center tells how easily a crew member’s career can be ruined by agreeing to “help” a colleague. This serves as an important reminder: 

Never accept or store bags or items belonging to others in your cabin.

The crew member explained that the incident happened on a Royal Caribbean ship when a colleague asked him to keep a bag in his cabin for a few days, promising to collect it later. Believing it was simply a favor, he agreed. Not long after, another colleague handed him a small trolley bag, also asking him to hold onto it temporarily. He says he had no reason to suspect that either bag contained anything inappropriate, nor was he told what was inside.

Days later, an anonymous email was sent to ship management, directly naming him and giving his cabin number, accusing him of having unaccounted alcohol belonging to the company. Acting on the tip, security officers searched his cabin. They found multiple bottles of wine, champagne, whiskey, and cognac. The crew member told security that the bags did not belong to him and had been entrusted to him by others.

According to his account, one of the individuals later admitted to the theft, confirming that the alcohol had been taken from the bar locker. Despite this, the crew member who had stored the bags was also dismissed, accused of hiding stolen goods. What makes the situation even more painful for him is that another person involved denied any connection and avoided punishment.

The crew member insists he was unfairly treated and framed. He says he had no knowledge of the theft, no intent to steal, and was only trying to help his colleagues by keeping their belongings safe for a short time. In his words, if he had known that the bottles were stolen, he would never have agreed to keep them in his cabin.

The Master’s Hearing

At the hearing, it was stated that the investigation started after the anonymous email accused crew of alcohol theft and on-duty drinking. The security search confirmed the presence of multiple bottles in the cabin.

The crew member explained that the items had been handed to him by colleagues who assured him they would retrieve them later. He insisted he did not know what the bags contained and had no involvement in stealing alcohol.

One crew member admitted to theft during the investigation and was terminated. However, the crew member who had stored the items was also dismissed, accused of assisting in hiding stolen goods and therefore being complicit. The final conclusion of the hearing stated that the presence of stolen alcohol in his cabin, regardless of his intentions, violated the Crew Conduct Policy and Theft.

The Lesson for All Crew

This case serves as a reminder: whatever is found in your cabin is your responsibility. Even if you had no involvement in theft or misconduct, you will be held accountable for items stored under your name.

If someone asks you to keep a bag, a bottle, or any item for them — say no. Protect yourself and your career.

It may seem like a small act of kindness, but the consequences can be career-ending.