A tragic accident at Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay, in the Bahamas, resulted in the death of a female cruise passenger on March 22, 2025. The victim, identified as a British/Czechoslovakian national, was traveling on Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m. when she reportedly lost control of her jet ski and collided with a rock. Despite the immediate response from medical personnel, she was pronounced dead by a local doctor.
Authorities from Eleuthera, located about 30 miles away, were promptly informed by the island manager. A comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Holland America Line is fully cooperating with the investigation and is providing support to the victim’s family and travel companions. The Nieuw Amsterdam was the only ship docked at Half Moon Cay that day, concluding a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise that began in Fort Lauderdale on March 16.
The accident caused delays in the ship’s return to Port Everglades, affecting both disembarkation and the embarkation of passengers for its subsequent 7-night Western Caribbean cruise.
This incident has raised significant safety concerns within the cruise industry, prompting discussions about the importance of safety during shore excursions. The cruise community has expressed condolences to the victim’s family, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and precautionary measures.
