April 15, 2026, 4:48 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The idea of tranquility at sea can be deceiving—especially when technical noises dominate the nights. A couple experienced just that on a cruise and took the matter to court. The ruling shows when noise in a cruise ship cabin is considered a travel defect—and how costly it can be for organizers.
Court Recognizes Noise as a Travel Defect
Constant noises from generators and engines can significantly impair relaxation on a cruise. According to a decision by the Schöneberg District Court in Berlin, nighttime noise in the cabin constitutes a travel defect. In such cases, a reduction of the travel price by 20 percent per affected day is justified (Case No.: 2 C 128/20). The trade journal “ReiseRecht aktuell” reported on the ruling.
The case originated from a lawsuit filed by a woman who, along with her husband, had booked an eleven-day cruise. During the day, the generators were clearly audible in their cabin. At night, engine noises were added—making restful sleep impossible even with earplugs.
Complaint Reported Early–But No Solution
The passenger reacted immediately: On the first day, she informed the tour guide about the noise disturbance and requested a different cabin. However, the ship was fully booked, and a change was not possible. A few days later, she officially reported the defect to the tour operator.
The travelers’ actions played an important role in the proceedings. Those who want to assert claims due to travel defects must report them as early as possible so the organizer can respond. In this case, however, a remedy was not possible.
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Witnesses Confirm Unreasonable Noise Levels
In addition to timely reporting, proof is also crucial. Travelers should document defects with photos, videos, or witness statements. This was successfully done here: Other passengers who had been in the couple’s cabin confirmed the heavy noise pollution from generators and engines. It was also proven that the engine ran partially at night.
Difference Between Normal and Unreasonable Noises
The court made a clear distinction: The constantly running generators for power supply are part of the usual operation of a cruise ship and must generally be accepted. It is different when additional engine noises occur.
If the combination of both noise sources led to a disruption of the stay in the cabin during the day, the court considered a reduction of ten percent of the daily travel price appropriate. However, if nighttime rest was also disturbed, the claim increased to 20 percent per affected day.
In the end, the couple, who paid around 13,000 euros for the trip, was awarded a price reduction of 1,480 euros. The court thus confirmed: Even at sea, travelers are entitled to undisturbed relaxation—at least at night.
With material from dpa