A female cruise passenger from Colorado is suing Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for more than $5 million, claiming she suffered life-altering injuries when its tour guide’s jet ski crashed into hers during a guided excursion at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
Jet Ski Tour Ends in Disaster
According to the lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida, the plaintiff participated in a guided jet ski tour while visiting CocoCay on December 20, 2024.
Despite Royal Caribbean advertising the excursion as “safe for beginners,” the guest alleges that the company was negligent in training and supervising excursion staff.
During the tour, an RCCL-employed guide allegedly recklessly collided with the back of her jet ski at high speed while trying to pass her. Instead of overtaking her, the guide ultimately propelled his jet ski over the plaintiff, crushing her body underneath.
As a result, the passenger suffered four traumatic spinal fractures, multiple contusions, and permanent injuries. The complaint claims that Royal Caribbean’s failure to prioritize guest safety put her in harm’s way.
Negligence Allegations Against Royal Caribbean
The lawsuit accuses RCCL of several negligence-related violations, including:
- Failure to train and supervise jet ski tour guides appropriately
- Failure to provide proper safety instructions before the excursion
- Violation of industry safety regulations, including Florida’s Livery Statute and International Navigational Rules
- Negligently entrusting unqualified employees with passenger safety
- Failing to warn guests of the potential risks involved
Her attorney, Justin Shapiro, says that Royal Caribbean was aware of similar past incidents but did not take corrective action.
Lawsuit Seeks Damages
The lawsuit seeks over $5 million in damages, citing medical expenses, permanent disability, lost earnings, pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, disfigurement, and more. The injured cruise guest is also requesting a jury trial.
Royal Caribbean has yet to respond to the lawsuit publicly. It remains to be seen whether the case will prompt changes in how cruise lines vet and supervise sponsored excursions.
Meanwhile, data from the US Coast Guard reveals there were 1,120 collisions with recreational vessels in 2023, leading to 43 deaths and 562 injuries.
