TWO passengers were hospitalized after a fight erupted aboard the world’s largest cruise ship on Monday.
The Royal Caribbean ship was forced to make an emergency return to port following the stunning brawl.
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was forced back to port on Monday after a fight broke out[/caption]
Two passengers were taken to the hospital after the late night brawl[/caption]
The Wonder of the Seas raced back to Miami, Florida, just moments after leaving port, according to Fox affiliate WSVN.
This came after one witness reported seeing crowds rush toward the pool deck and watched as the children’s pool was roped off, ABC affiliate WPLG-TV reported.
According to the passenger, the captain told guests that the ship was turning back so that an injured traveler could be hospitalized.
The passengers were spotted outside Jackson Memorial Hospital in videos taken by the local outlets.
Royal Caribbean said, “Our team provided medical care to adult guests who were involved in an altercation onboard, and the guests are being treated for their injuries.”
Passengers on the ship fumed on social media about the incident, as they were forced to wait for the involved guests to disembark.
Miami-Dade police and the Coast Guard are now investigating what exactly sparked the mid-sea meltdown.
Royal Caribbean has not confirmed whether the individuals involved will face charges or be banned from future voyages.
“We notified local authorities and are working closely with them. As this is an ongoing investigation, we have no more information to share at this time,” Royal Caribbean wrote.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to the cruise line for any updates.
CRUISE SAFETY
The Wonder of the Seas is just the latest packed cruise ship to see a bout of on-board violence.
In April, a crowd of passengers on the Carnival Jubilee cruise line launched into a massive brawl as they disembarked from the vessel.
The clash was so intense that 24 people were later banned from future Carnival cruises and placed on a “Do Not Sail” list.
In another cruise incident, a 72-year-old passenger fell overboard from the Ruby Princess during a five-day voyage.
Cruise safety tips
- Know the rules — Read your ship’s safety and security guide as soon as you board.
- Stay alert — Alcohol can fuel trouble; keep an eye on your surroundings in crowded areas.
- Use the buddy system — Stick with friends or family, especially at night.
- Report fast — If you see a fight, theft, or anything suspicious, notify crew immediately.
- Secure your cabin — Lock doors, use safes, and don’t share keycards.
- Watch the decks — Pools and party areas are hot spots for late-night incidents.
- Emergency contacts — Know where security and medical stations are located on your ship.
The incident sparked a frantic search effort and raised safety concerns about cruise ship travel.
Royal Caribbean states on its website that fights on cruises are rare.
The line also says there are security measures in place to prevent violence.
Wonder of the Seas is staffed with full-time security and medical teams trained to handle emergencies at any hour, the website reads.
Royal Caribbean says crime reports are shared with authorities at the ship’s next port, as well as with the country where the vessel is registered.
The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act also requires every cruise line to provide a security guide to passengers.
By law, serious cases such as assaults causing major injuries must be reported immediately to the FBI, with follow-ups sent to Homeland Security and the Coast Guard.
