Watch passengers scramble as Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas tilts dangerously in the Atlantic!
The Royal Caribbean cruise ship Explorer of the Seas faced intense turbulence on Thursday, resulting in chaos for passengers onboard. The ship was en route from Barcelona to Miami and had just departed Spain’s coast near Tenerife in the Canary Islands when it was struck by an unexpected wind gust. The sudden weather shift caused the massive ship to tilt sharply to one side, leaving passengers scrambling to keep their balance and causing objects to fall across various areas of the vessel.
Footage captured during the incident shows the dramatic moment as passengers stumble and reach out to steady themselves while furniture, bottles, and items on shelves fall or slide. The tilt was reportedly severe, with estimates suggesting an angle of up to 45 degrees, leading to a frightening experience for those onboard. The atmosphere was tense as people tried to grasp the situation, and the unexpected jolt sent shockwaves through the cruise.
One passenger, identified as Jonathan Parrish, shared his experience with CBS News, explaining how the initial shock and confusion among passengers quickly settled once the captain made an announcement. “There was about five minutes where everyone was wondering what was going on,” Parrish said. “But as soon as the captain came on and explained, it gave everyone a sense of calmness.” According to Royal Caribbean Cruises, the ship’s crew responded immediately, working to stabilize the vessel and calm the worried passengers.
Following the tilt, Royal Caribbean implemented safety protocols, asking passengers to return to their cabins while a headcount and safety verification were conducted. This precautionary measure ensured everyone’s safety, as the crew monitored the weather and assessed any potential risks. Fortunately, most of the passengers were unharmed, but one passenger reportedly sustained injuries that required further medical attention.
In light of the injury, Royal Caribbean announced that the ship would make an unscheduled stop in Las Palmas, Spain. Here, the injured passenger would be disembarked to receive appropriate medical care. The cruise line confirmed the diversion in a public statement, noting, “One of our guests was injured and requires additional medical care, so the ship will make a call in Las Palmas, Spain, for medical disembarkation. We are communicating these changes directly with our guests to keep everyone informed.”
The Explorer of the Seas is a grand cruise liner, stretching 1,020 feet and accommodating up to 4,290 guests along with 1,185 crew members. Since its construction in 2000, this Bahamas-registered ship has been a favorite for travelers worldwide, offering luxurious amenities including an ice-skating rink, a mini-golf course, a rock climbing wall, and 15 passenger decks filled with entertainment options. Despite the incident, Royal Caribbean reassured passengers that safety remains their top priority and that they are committed to providing safe and enjoyable travel experiences.
The intense wind gust, estimated to have reached 86 miles per hour, was a rare and unforeseen occurrence. Royal Caribbean explained that the sudden shift in wind speed—from 46 mph to 86 mph in a short span—caused the tilt. Though extreme weather events are uncommon, the cruise industry prepares for such scenarios through rigorous safety protocols and crew training. The team on Explorer of the Seas handled the situation with professionalism, and after the announcement from the captain, many passengers expressed relief and gratitude for the swift response.
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of thorough safety measures onboard. Royal Caribbean expressed sympathy for those affected and thanked passengers for their cooperation during the unsettling event. With the injured passenger receiving necessary medical care, the ship is expected to resume its journey toward Miami after the Las Palmas stop.
Scheduled to arrive in Miami in two weeks, Explorer of the Seas will continue its journey, albeit with some minor adjustments to its itinerary. The cruise line assured travelers that safety checks and maintenance were being prioritized to prevent further disruptions.
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