Fight Aboard Wonder of the Seas Forces Return to Miami

Two passengers injured in onboard altercation; ship cut voyage short and returned to PortMiami.

On Monday evening, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was forced back to PortMiami after a verbal dispute between two adult guests turned physical, leaving both hospitalized with minor injuries.

The captain made the decision to abandon the cruise and return to port when medical staff alerted him that the altercation had escalated beyond what could be treated onboard. This unexpected diversion highlights the cruise line’s commitment to passenger safety and swift response to onboard emergencies.

Incident Details

  • Around 6:48 p.m. local time on Sept. 15, Miami-Dade authorities received reports of a “physical dispute” aboard the Wonder of the Seas shortly after it departed for a four-day Bahamas cruise.
  • Witnesses said chaos erupted near the pool area before crew members cordoned off the space and the captain announced the ship would head back to Miami.

Emergency Response

  • Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Miami-Dade Sheriff’s deputies were standing by when the ship docked around 8:30 p.m.; two passengers were immediately transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital for evaluation and later released.
  • Royal Caribbean’s medical team provided initial care onboard and notified local authorities, with no arrests reported as both guests declined to press charges.

Voyage Itinerary

Wonder of the Seas had set sail earlier that day on a round-trip Bahamas voyage, scheduled to visit Coco Cay and Nassau before returning on Sept. 19. After the emergency return, the ship resumed its intended route once authorities cleared the situation.

Ongoing Investigation

Royal Caribbean and PortMiami officials are cooperating in an active investigation. No further details have been released as authorities review security footage and interview involved parties.

Passengers and crew can expect stricter enforcement of conduct policies moving forward, with the cruise line emphasizing zero tolerance for violent behavior at sea.