Watch: Our compilation of the worst Pier Runners shows the heartbreak and sorrow of missing a cruise ship

• It has become an increasing problem – passengers who miss their ship.
• Usually, they have taken private shore excursions that arrive back late. But sometimes, they are delayed or mistake with the time.
• Either way, the results are often the same – the ship sails without them and they have to either try and catch it at the next port or write off their cruise.

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The word Schadenfreude (literal translation “harm-joy”) is defined as the experience of pleasure, joy, or self-satisfaction that comes from witnessing the troubles or humiliation of another.

Could this be the reason that witnessing pier runnings, passengers who miss their cruise ships because they are late, is often accompanied by whoops and derisive laughter by those on board?

During a recent incident in Saint Kitts and Nevis, passengers cheered and laughed as a young couple arrived in a golf buggy only to watch a Royal Caribbean ship sail away.

The result can be a disaster, with passports, money and medicines left on board and passengers desperately scrambling to find a way to meet their ship.

Why can’t ships turn back?

Why can’t ships turn back?

• Tight Schedules: Cruise ships have very tight schedules, and delays can impact the entire itinerary, potentially leading to missed ports or further delays at subsequent stops.
• Cost of Delay: Overstaying the allocated timeslot can be expensive, and ships may need to adjust their speed to make up for lost time, which can also be costly.
• Captain’s Priority: The captain’s primary focus is on punctuality and safety, especially if weather or sea conditions are changing. 

Cruise Passenger has recorded this phenomenon—our last video went viral. Today, we present the sequel, a compilation of 19 more recent pier runners, some of whom have given up hope and others who have just made it.

Pier runner personalities

The Olympic sprinters

You’ve got to give it to them- these guys are reaching speeds that they’ve probably never hit before in their lives. Pier running becomes an Olympic sport, and it’s probably because their passport, money and medication are onboard.

The walkers

Probably the most unbothered cruisers out there. Their all-aboard time was half an hour ago, and yet they’re strolling towards the ship without a care in the world. One of the Olympic sprinters may pass them, giving onlookers the hilarious juxtaposition of a type-A cruiser and a type-B cruiser.

The fakers

The fakers are known for their dramatic performances- usually falling to the floor and punching the ground, like a child throwing a tantrum. Fakers can also be those who go for a quick 10-metre sprint, rallying up the cruisers watching before gesturing “I’m joking”, much to the cruisers’ disappointment.

The ones who got the ships mixed up

There’s always one. They’re probably well within their all-aboard time, strolling towards their wharf, which has two cruise ships docked. Maybe they had a few too many cocktails at the local bar. Suddenly, one ship pulls away, and the panic and disbelief set in. It’s only when they see the other cruisers continuing to the other ship that they realise their mistake. They sheepishly board their ship, hoping no one saw.