Immigration Agents Detain Cruise Ship Crew in San Diego

Federal Agents Detain Cruise Ship Crew in San Diego U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained at least 10 crew members from a Disney cruise ship at the Port of San Diego on April 23, following the vessel's return from a five-day voyage. This action, observed by passengers, subsequently led to similar detentions on another cruise ship two days later, prompting calls for increased transparency from federal agencies and enhanced worker protection from cruise lines.

The detentions occurred at the B Street Cruise Terminal, a federal port of entry where U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holds jurisdiction over immigration and customs enforcement. The Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department confirmed no involvement in these enforcement actions, citing California law (SB 54) which prohibits their participation in immigration enforcement activities.

Immigrant rights groups reported that crew members, still in uniform and without personal belongings, were detained. Two days later, on April 25, four seafarers from Holland America's MV Zandaam were also reportedly detained by ICE agents. These incidents have been characterized by advocacy groups as part of a growing pattern of enforcement actions in U.S. ports.