P&O Cruises faces a class-action lawsuit over allegedly using predatory casino tactics and illegally detaining passengers who couldn't pay gambling debts. The lawsuit follows the tragic death of Shane Dixon, who jumped overboard in Sydney Harbour after losing AU$9,000 (US$5,800) during a three-day cruise.

Carter Capner Law reports receiving numerous complaints about P&O's gambling practices. While the cruise line has modified some practices following Dixon's death, they allegedly continue offering excessive credit lines and perks to encourage gambling.

Key allegations include:

• Allowing passengers to gamble beyond their means without proper credit checks
• Offering credit limits up to AU$5,000 per day
• Providing incentives like free cruises and unlimited alcohol to known problem gamblers
• Detaining passengers who couldn't pay their debts

In one case, a passenger was allowed to lose AU$6,000 despite having only AU$2,000 in his account. Another accumulated AU$25,000 in debt and was detained until signing an acknowledgment.

Peter Carter, the law firm's director, states that preventing passengers from leaving ships over gambling debts is illegal under Australian law. The legal action comes as P&O Cruises prepares to rebrand to Carnival Cruise Line next year.

These practices particularly affected vulnerable passengers, with some reporting being offered substantial credit lines despite previous gambling debts with the company. The lawsuit aims to address these predatory practices and seek compensation for affected passengers.

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