Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas experienced terror as the ship tipped nearly 45 degrees during its journey from Barcelona to Florida. Unexpected wind gusts reaching 86 mph off the coast of Tenerife caused chaos, with furniture, glasses, and even a grand piano sliding uncontrollably. Many passengers believed they were facing their final moments, sending goodbye messages to loved ones and likening the event to the Titanic.
One passenger, Dan, recalled hearing screams and seeing signs and furniture flying. “I was writing my last message, thinking I would die,” he admitted. Another traveler described the scene in the theater, where items slid across the stage as the ship listed. Video footage shared online captured the devastation, showing trashed shops and a chaotic interior.
Royal Caribbean issued a statement explaining that a guest was injured during the incident, requiring a medical stop in Las Palmas, Spain. The ship will continue its journey to Miami after the detour. The company assured passengers that the situation was caused by an unexpected weather event and emphasized safety protocols in place.
The event has drawn widespread attention, with many passengers describing the ordeal as the most frightening experience of their lives. Despite the scare, the ship is expected to resume its normal operations once it reaches its destination.
