Tragic Death Onboard Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise Sparks Controversy and Speculation

MIAMI (AP) – A passenger has died while on board a nine-month Royal Caribbean cruise, the company announced on Tuesday.

The guest was sailing on the Serenade of the Seas, which is currently on the Ultimate World Cruise voyage. Details about the passenger and the circumstances surrounding the death were not disclosed. A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean stated that they are providing support and assistance to the guest’s loved ones at this time, and out of respect for their privacy, no further information will be shared at this time.

The Ultimate World Cruise departed from Miami on December 10, 2023, and is set to take passengers across the seas to all seven continents, over 60 countries, and 11 world wonders, such as the Taj Mahal in India and the Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil.

The ship has already crossed through Mexico, the Caribbean, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador on its South America leg in January. The Asia Pacific leg of the voyage began on Sunday and will see the ship pass through Hawaii, Polynesia, and Australia, among other major destinations.

The Serenade of the Seas is equipped with 13 decks, 1,073 guest rooms, and can accommodate over 2,100 guests. The Ultimate World Cruise has gained attention on social media, with some users on TikTok comparing the experience to a reality TV show.

Several passengers on board have been documenting the journey on TikTok, offering a glimpse into life at sea. One user even created an “Ultimate World Cruise Bingo card” predicting potential events that could unfold during the trip.

Royal Caribbean has not released any additional information about the incident, and the investigation into the passenger’s death is ongoing.