A passenger on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship embarking on a nine-month global voyage has died. The Serenade of the Seas, which sailed from Miami on Dec. 10, 2023, was in the midst of its "Ultimate World Cruise," a journey with stops in 60 countries spanning seven continents. According to a statement obtained by NDTV, "A guest sailing onboard Serenade of the Seas has sadly passed away. We are actively providing support and assistance to the guest's loved ones at this time."
The deceased has been described as an elderly woman who was traveling alone by a TikTok user known as Adita, a popular content creator and cruise ship enthusiast also onboard. Adita witnessed the removal of the body from the cabin and recounted, "I was coming to my room when they were taking the body out." She speculated, "I'm thinking it was probably a heart attack. But I don't have much news other than it was a female elderly patient, or guest, that passed away," according to a People Magazine report. Out of respect for privacy, Royal Caribbean has not disclosed the passenger's identity nor the circumstances of her death.
Many large cruise ships, including those operated by Royal Caribbean, are equipped with morgues and body bags, anticipating the potential for untimely deaths at sea. As reports from the New York Post indicate that deceased individuals are typically stored in the ship's mortuary until they can be transferred at a significant port of call.
Meanwhile, the Serenade of the Seas has traversed various regions, including Mexico, the Caribbean, South America and, most recently, entered the Asia Pacific leg on Sunday. Amidst the ongoing voyage, which will also cover parts of the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and Europe, Royal Carribbean is considering altering its route due to tension in the Red Sea and along the Suez Canal. The cruise line stated, "The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority an we are monitoring what is taking place in and around the Red Sea. In looking ahead at potential itinerary adjustments, we are currently reviewing alternatives for Serenade of the Seas." Guests and travel partners have been promised an update by mid-February, as announced by the company.
