Detroit, MI asked in Employment Law and Admiralty / Maritime for Michigan

Q: cruiseline job. Received medical certificate fit for duty with restriction of "near coastal water" defined as 200 miles

Restriction is due to type 1 diabetes. Cruise line states no voyages within 200 miles although their marketing states otherwise. Is this employment discrimination? How can I find more information on maritime laws, definitions

2 Lawyer Answers
Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
Answered
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: Unlikely, but I suppose it's worth it to consult with an employment law attorney. Quite likely, the terms of employment with a cruise line include you being certified for "worldwide" service. If you must remain within 200 miles, you are not available for worldwide use, and I am unsure they would have an obligation to hire you solely for any cruises that don't exceed 200 miles.

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
Answered
  • Maritime Law Lawyer
  • Little Neck, NY

A: In the second part of your question, you ask about where to find information on maritime laws and definitions. Go to the National Maritime Center. It is administered by the U.S. Coast Guard and it offers information for merchant mariner credentialing, licensing, physical exams, training, and other areas applicable to employment as a commercial mariner. The web address is: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/recs/

Tim Akpinar

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