The cruise industry had to deal with four different fatalities onboard four cruise vessels in a timeframe of two weeks. The incidents had no relation with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The body of a crewmember onboard the Regal Princess cruise ship was found in the water, with their death marking the fourth non-COVID fatality reported aboard a large cruise ship within the past two weeks.
The news were announced from Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which added that local police in Rotterdam believe the accident may have been a suicide. The deceased body will be returned to Ukraine.
Additionally, on Sunday, May 10, a Chinese national was found dead in their cabin by their crew mates on board Mariner of the Seas. It is stated that the crewmember was recently digned onboard the vessel. Various sources reported that the news were based on statements from other members onboard the vessel and was then reported by a plaintiffs’ lawyer.
A third fatality involves a 29-year-old crewmember onboard the Carnival Breeze cruise ship, that was found dead. The Hungarian crewmember was an assistant excursion manager. Furthermore, it is stated that the crewmember committed suicide. Yet, the cruise line has confirmed the fatality but not the cause.
A spokesperson quoted that “Sadly, we can confirm the death of a male team member who was on guest status on Carnival Breeze’s repatriation sailing to Europe … His death is not related to COVID-19, but out of respect for his family, we will not be providing additional details.”
Finally, the fourth incident involves a 27-year-old electrician who fell from the cruise ship Jewel of the Seas and was moored in the Saronic Gulf. The accident took place on April 29. At the time of the incident, the Greek Coast Guard conducted a search operation, but was unable to locate the victim. The accident has also been confirmed by the cruise company.
