Europeans better protected legally when travelling by water from now onwards. As from 31 December 2012, passengers travelling by sea will have the right to claim compensation for loss or damage in the event of accidents. Passengers travelling by sea and inland waterways in the EU, and in particular disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility, will benefit from similar rights to those passengers travelling by air or by train. Appointment of independent national bodies in charge of enforcing the regulation, where appropriate, through the application of penalties. Right to receive appropriate and comprehensible information regarding the above rights prior to or –at the latest – upon departure.