Norwegian Cruise Line Settles with Illinois Over COVID-19 Practices

The $2 million multistate agreement bars deceptive sales tactics during the pandemic.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:54pm

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A highly reflective, polished metal model of a cruise ship resting on a clean white background, creating dramatic shadows that symbolize the legal and financial challenges facing the cruise industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.A settlement with Illinois over deceptive pandemic-era practices underscores the legal and financial challenges facing the cruise industry.Chicago Today

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has announced a settlement with Norwegian Cruise Line over the company's business practices during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The $2 million multistate agreement bars the cruise line from engaging in deceptive disaster-era sales tactics and sends $116,000 to Illinois as part of the payout to states.

Why it matters

The settlement highlights concerns over how some businesses may have taken advantage of consumers during the uncertainty of the pandemic. It also demonstrates state efforts to hold companies accountable and protect consumers, especially in industries heavily impacted by COVID-19 such as the cruise industry.

The details

Under the terms of the agreement, Norwegian Cruise Line is prohibited from making misleading representations about its cancellation and refund policies, the public health risks of cruise travel, and the company's efforts to protect passenger health and safety during the pandemic. The $2 million payout will be distributed to the participating states, with Illinois receiving $116,000.

  • The settlement was announced on April 13, 2026.

The players

Kwame Raoul

The Attorney General of Illinois who announced the settlement with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Norwegian Cruise Line

A major cruise line company that reached a $2 million multistate settlement over its business practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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What they’re saying

“We must not allow companies to take advantage of consumers, especially during times of crisis. This settlement holds Norwegian Cruise Line accountable and ensures they will not engage in deceptive practices in the future.”

— Kwame Raoul, Illinois Attorney General

The takeaway

This settlement is a reminder that state attorneys general are closely monitoring businesses for any attempts to mislead or exploit consumers, particularly during major public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. It underscores the importance of companies maintaining transparency and integrity in their operations, even in challenging times.