This law creates new protections for cruise ship passengers, particularly U.S. citizens. It establishes a new Office of Maritime Consumer Protection within the Department of Transportation to handle consumer complaints and enforce passenger rights.

The law requires cruise lines to provide clear, easy-to-understand summaries of important contract terms before passengers book their trips. These summaries must highlight things like hidden fees, what country the ship is registered in, limits on the cruise line's responsibility, and how to file complaints. Cruise lines must display this information on their websites, in ads, and in booking confirmations. The law also sets up a free hotline and website where passengers can report problems like cancellations, lost baggage, overcharges, or deceptive advertising.

For serious crimes on cruise ships, the law strengthens reporting requirements and victim support. Ship owners must notify the FBI within 4 hours of learning about crimes like sexual assault or missing passengers. The law creates a director of victim support services to help crime victims access counseling, legal information, and other assistance. Ships must also improve safety features like railings on exterior decks, better surveillance systems, and security training for crew members. Additionally, the law prevents cruise lines from forcing passengers into arbitration before disputes arise and bans "class action waivers" that would prevent groups of passengers from suing together.