A Royal Caribbean cruise passenger says his family was misled during an art auction at sea, describing the experience as a “bait and switch” after being told they had won a piece for $650—only to be later informed the actual price was $2,700.
The incident occurred aboard Freedom of the Seas during the family’s first cruise with the line.
According to a Reddit post from the guest, the family participated in an onboard art auction hosted by Park West Gallery. This private vendor partners with several cruise lines to sell fine art at sea.
What Happened?
“We were drawn to a piece of art,” the guest wrote. “Someone came over to assist us and continued to ‘sell it.’ He gave us the ‘reserve’ lowest price, and we decided to bid.”
They initially bid $650 but were outbid by another group, prompting them to raise their offer to $750.
Later, both parties were told they had won the auction for the original price of $650.
The guest said his children were thrilled and already planning where to hang the artwork at home.
That excitement turned into disappointment. After providing shipping and payment details, the family was shown a copy of the artwork, which did not match their bid.
The auctioneer reportedly apologized and claimed there had been “a horrible mistake,” saying the listed price was incorrect and the real cost was $2,700.
“I feel like it was a scam,” the guest said. “Announcing one price to the crowd, then later backing out in private.”
But not everyone leaves disappointed. One commenter said, “I’d always admired Peter Max’s art style, so when I saw his work on display during our cruise, I knew I had to check it out. I wound up buying two pieces for $6800. The staff was incredibly nice and knowledgeable. Everything was disclosed to us up front.”
Contacting Royal Caribbean
The family contacted Royal Caribbean’s guest services to report the issue but were told that Park West is an independent vendor.
The cruise line advised them to resolve the matter directly with the auction company. Some guests believe Royal Caribbean should be held accountable for activities conducted under its banner.
“I feel like Royal should make sure they do what they said they would do… as they operate on their ship,” the post added.
Multiple comments on the Reddit thread indicate that Park West Gallery has previously received similar complaints from cruise passengers.
Some users shared their negative experiences, while others questioned why cruise lines continue to partner with the company.
“Everyone knows about Park West. There are tons of complaints,” one commenter wrote. Another added: “I’ve heard for years Park West is a scam… if I know it, Royal Caribbean surely does too.”
Royal Caribbean or Park West has not publicly responded to the Reddit post.
Some guests say the cruise line should reconsider its relationship with Park West.
The arrangements between the cruise line and Park West are not disclosed, but they are typically operated on a commission or lease agreement with the art company and the cruise line. Park West operates on over 100 ships across the globe.
In 2023, two guests from a Carnival ship pulled off a heist and stole $12,800 worth of Park West art.
