bahamas celebration cruise incident

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Passengers describe chaos after cruise ship runs aground

A cruise ship nightmare in the Bahamas is finally over. The ship, that had many Americans onboard, ran aground and was severely listing as it came into port.

"It was like an actual Halloween horror cruise turned into real life," said passenger Daniel Fana.

Photos show passengers lining up to grab life jackets.

Nine hundred and sixty passengers onboard the Bahamas Celebration Cruise Line captured the emergency on their phones.

After the 600 foot tall ship hit the dock, it was tilting dangerously to one side. Back on solid ground, passengers described the scene as pure chaos.

"Everybody was screaming at each other," passenger Joan Fischer said. "It was just a nightmare."

"The panic was just too much for my comfort," said passenger Amanda Jones.

Fellow passenger LaShawn Farrar added, "We could feel the boat tipping over."

"People were crying," said passenger Daniel Fana. "People were hysterical."

And passenger Rod mason simply said, "We were scared."

Passengers were clearly terrified, especially following the tragic disaster of the Costa Concordia two years ago. That luxury cruise ship also ran aground, killing 32 people.

Forced to abandon ship, passengers told ABC News the vessel came to a jerking halt before plunging into a blackout.

A young couple said, "We were in the middle of gambling. We were playing roulette and the lights went out."

That's when the luxury liner hit an unidentified object off Grand Bahama Island.

Celebration Cruise Line officials say: "No passengers were ever in any danger."

On Sunday morning, the luxury liner, which is almost the size of two football fields, was safely docked.

Officials are now assessing the damage to determine the cause of the collision. And some passengers are assessing their love of cruises.

"I would never do this kind of thing again," said passenger Ruth Hurd.

Fischer agrees, "It turned out to be an absolute disaster and it made us never wanna go on a cruise ship again."

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‘I just wanted to get off the ship’: Jacksonville passengers fall ill after cruise to Bahamas

Aleesia Hatcher , Multimedia Journalist

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Carnival cruise that sailed off from Jacksonville’s port on a five-day trip to the Bahamas turned into a nightmare for a lot of people as they became ill on the first night.

MORE: Additional cruise line may be coming to Jacksonville soon, JaxPort CEO says

Patrick Welsh was on the cruise with his wife when he heard the captain on the loudspeaker announcing the discovery of the illness.

“He said that there’s a large portion of the passengers and crew that has what they believed to be the norovirus,” Welsh said. “We noticed a lot of people were missing and then we weren’t feeling very good.”

Welsh also said they mentioned food poisoning so he avoided the buffet bars.

“It didn’t matter what you were eating on there. It wasn’t safe,” Welsh said.

Welsh’s family and other passengers getting sick caused a lot of things to get canceled.

“I just wanted to get off the ship,” Welsh said. “We were looking forward to this for nine or 10 months, and we were all excited. Now we’ve got people they’re like, ‘Oh, no way.’”

He encouraged people planning on taking a cruise to carry their own hand sanitizer, and medicine, and to wear a mask in crowded areas.

Welsh said everyone he was with either has the flu or covid and they are currently recovering.

News4JAX reached out to Carnival and hasn’t received a response at the time of publishing this article.

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UPDATED: Bahamas Celebration cruise ship runs aground: 'No danger of it sinking'

As of Saturday, November 1, 2014

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BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

[email protected]

SEVEN hundred passengers and crew members were evacuated from the Bahamas Celebration after the cruise ship ran aground outside Freeport Harbour on Friday night.

Salvage crews have spent the day assessing the damage caused by “a small hole in the side of the vessel” after it ran aground 200 yards outside the port around 9pm. The ship returned to port and all passengers and crew left the ship safely.

James Verillo, owner of the Bahamas Celebration cruise line, said on Saturday afternoon that a small hole on the side of the vessel has been repaired and the ship is in no danger of sinking.

“The ship is listing at about 10 per cent and there is a whole host of professionals on board dealing with the issue. There was a small hole on the side of the ship that has already been patched,” he said.

Mr Verillo said they do not know the cost of the damages at this stage. Earlier reports had suggested there was a 50-50 chance the ship might sink.

All passengers and non-essential crew-members, including casino staff, bartenders and waitresses have left the ship. Only technical staff are still on board. Passengers have boarded another ship and were expected to be returning to Florida on Saturday evening.

The cruise ship initiated emergency procedures and all passengers were instructed to put on life jackets when the vessel ran aground. Salvage crews have been assessing the damage since 2am on Saturday.

According to a statement issued by the Celebration Cruise Line, passengers were never in any danger and were being accommodated at various resorts on the island. It is not known how many passengers were onboard at the time.

“As a precaution, all passengers we're asked to put on life jackets and emergency steps were taken as the ship staff practices every week. No passengers were ever in any danger and everything was handled in an organised and efficient way by the ship,” it stated.

The Celebration had been expected to return to the port of Palm Beach around 7pm on Saturday but the cruise line said it will remain in the Bahamas while damage can be assessed.

The cruise line has cancelled scheduled cruises for Saturday and Monday and all booked passengers will be notified and a refund or other arrangements will be made.

Celebration Cruise Line said they will issue more information at a later time. “Our focus at this time is taking care of our passengers who were on the ship or had planned to be on the ship over the next few days,” it said.

ThisIsOurs 9 years, 7 months ago

Glad to hear noone was hurt. Did they say that was the SS PLP?

pat242 9 years, 7 months ago

Thisisours. You living in the wrong era. The SS PLP was a election slogan in the 80s. You are taking politics so serious that someone could of gotten seriously hurt or killed, and you are using the incident to make light of an aposeing political entity. How childish, it's about time you grow up.

Pat, you're back! Looking forward to "interesting" comments. Thanks for the well wishes. All aboard!

concernedcitizen 9 years, 7 months ago

Talrussell 9 years, 7 months ago.

No thanks can I have my luggage back? Comrade Verillo you say there was no risk of your ship sinking? You'd have wonder how many of the 700 passengers and crew members who had be evacuated from the Bahamas Celebration, after the cruise ship ran aground outside Freeport Harbour on Friday night, would have boarded, had they been told prior boarding that there was a 50% chance during the voyage that the ship might sink? Check and see what insurance premiums would be on ship with 50% chance sinking? If a 50% danger present of a ship sinking is not a reason for passenger alarm, what in hell would cause alarm? Say a 100% chance sinking?

Fitmiss 9 years, 7 months ago

Maybe I am insensitive. I give God thanks that no one was hurt. With that in mine I found the sinking ship comparison to our governing party's future to be a funny analogy. It was a cute joke and at this rate our country is in a far worst state than the Celebration ship. After all these people had the good sense to quickly call in professionals to fix the problem unlike our government. I have come across a lot of crass and rude comments and jokes on this site, but I personally feel Thisisours made a fitting remark. The rebuke which was made was not call for and quite insulting. Let us be nicer people. TalRussell you make a valid point about how nonchalant it is to say only 50/50 chance of sinking.

Usernineteen 9 years, 7 months ago

As a passenger of this ship when this happened I can honestly say this was the most unorganized chaos! NO ONE I mean no one knew what was going on or what to do. The crew members treated passengers with disrespect. Our lives WERE in danger or we would not have been escorted off the boat and sent home and another! Truly the worst vacation I've ever been on and will not be returning to this cruise line ever! If this would have happened on a carnival or royal Caribbean boat we would have never experienced half the struggles we did! For example not being offered food or water for almost 24 hours! Staying in a resort means nothing when you arrive at 4 in the morning and leave at 10am!

Uk_raven 9 years, 7 months ago

As a fellow passenger I absolutely agree. To the author of this story I ask ... Were you approached by the owner to write this STORY (because that's what it is!) If you wanted TRUTH why did you not write the truth from those that experienced it? Only Celebration PR are concerned with the deployment of the ship, at a time when overnight hotel vouchers should have been handed to their passengers returning at 2am after a 30 hour fright night!

The captain himself caused hysteria! His tone was full of terror! We had no information except for him telling us that the boat had a hole in it & that we were on back up generators. In the same breath he said to put life jackets on. I was drinking coffee at the time so I did not see or hear any safety information I asked a member of staff running past and she shouted "they are on the 7th floor - I was on the 4th. There was no order because there was no information. My dinner reservation was at 9pm so I did not eat for 24hrs. No food was provided to me. We had jackets on and no air on - it was extremely hot. There was no communication to remove the jackets it took 5 hours for me to get off longer for those behind me. The ship was tilting and difficult to line up with the plank.., it fell at least once and they had to keep adjusting it.

There were lots of rumours I'm the absence of official information. Staff were extremely rude in particular Copeland & Paola Caseillo who tried to restrict movement of breathing equipment in her ignorance, and passengers trying to move to cooler areas. No formal I information was given following the Captains panic blast.

We did not know where we were going when we left the ship and once at the hotel I was mot told that I needed to be ready to return to the dock at 10am. I learnt that from front desk the next morning. There were people staying in an all I inclusive resort that didn't know that breakfast was provided.., do they didn't eat and others in a paying resort that didn't eat because they were told by the hotel that breakfast was not covered by celebration.

The busses arrived 45mins late... At the port the aircon was so high we cold not stay on the room and the wind was raging outside. We waited until 3:30 when the Bimini arrived. We were told at the port that we would be back to US in 2.5 hrs we did not leave Freeport until 6:30 and arrived Miami at 12:30am.

This whole process was far from organized, we were not treated with the dignity that human beings should have been given, let alone paying passengers! One thing was clear... We all want compensation Mr. Verillo and to know how this could have happened & who is responsible?

Thank God one that this did not happen outside of the port. With this level of incompetance we would have died.

topclements 9 years, 7 months ago

I was on the ship as well and have quite a different take on it. First I agree the Captian made a mistake by not coming back on and giving updates, that is the only thing we agree on. First the crew did as good a job as possible. I doubt that those who responded are either combat vets or first responders, because if you were you would know the difference between training and real life situations. This crew was trained and did the best they could. You try and deal with hundreds of people whos vacation was enterupted at one time, add the fear of the ship being in danger. Let's not even mention that half were drinking. I saw passengers disrespecting crew as though they were non Americans and had no right to tell the paying customers what to do. I heard fellow passengers yelling at everyone to "Shut up " so they could hear the crew call cabin numbers, even then people were laughing and joking.I heard to day the comedian who was onboard talking about the crew, I was near the entertainers and told them thry would become famous if they started to play (see Titanic) they just laughed and kept talking, did nothing. There was a man Mr. Turner from JAGS International who organized the busses as well as the rooms, he worked tirelessly to help, answered his phone everytime someone called,, I know I called him about 6 times to let the people at my hotel what was going on. He always told us what he knew and for the most part he was right on the money. I travel all over the world and what most of the other passengers don't understand is we do thing differently in US. Think about it, if you owned a small stand right outside the stricken cruise ship wouldn't you have opened it to serve 1000 stranded customers? Only 2 0r 3 had enough business savvy to open on an off day. Give these brave crew members there due.

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Hundreds of passengers aboard a Halloween cruise in the Bahamas got an unexpected scare late Friday when the ship struck an unkown object and lost power on its way back to Florida.

Passengers aboard the Bahamas Celebration cruise ship were asked to wear life jackets and emergency steps were taken, Celebration Cruise Line said in a news release made public Saturday. The ship returned to Freeport on Grand Bahama Island, and the passengers were placed in accommodations, according to the Palm Beach Post .

There were no reported injuries. Passengers said they took a ferry to Miami and then were transferred to West Palm Beach.

>> Read more trending stories

“No passengers were ever in any danger and everything was handled in an organized and efficient way,” the cruise line said.

But several passengers said otherwise, according to a CNN report .

"One crew member would say one thing, and then another crew member would say something else. ... They had no idea what to do," said passenger Cindy Parette, 47.

CNN reported that some vacationers wanted a refund or at least an explanation of what happened.

"When you expect 2 1/2 fun-filled days and you get basically a nightmare for 24 hours, you should at least get an apology or something," said Armando Fana, 44.

Crews were working to assess damage to the ship, and the company said it would cancel at least two cruises planned for the vessel, according to WFTV in Orlando .

– CNN and WFTV in Orlando, Fla. , contributed to this report.

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A Celebration Cruise Liner Was Evacuated After Hitting an Unknown Object at Sea

P assengers on board a cruise through the Bahamas had to be evacuated Friday when their ship struck an unknown object at sea and lost power.

The Bahamas Celebration cruise was en route to Florida when it was forced to return to port on Grand Bahama Island after the incident, which occurred around 9 p.m. Friday, CNN reports.

Passengers told the news network that there was panic on board.

Armando Fana, 44, said: “There was folks crying … You could see people were kind of jockeying for the life jackets.”

Other passengers alleged that the crew were not organized. Cindy Parette, 47, said: “One crew member would say one thing, and then another crew member would say something else … They had no idea what to do.”

Celebration Cruise Line said in a statement that the passengers were placed in resorts on the island.

“No passengers were ever in any danger, and everything was handled in an organized and efficient way by ship, corporate and Bahamian personnel,” the cruise line maintained.

The ship’s 960 passengers and crew were returned to Port Miami on Saturday evening and two Celebration cruises due to leave on Saturday and Monday were canceled.

Crews were working to assess the damage to the vessel.

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Celebration grounded in Freeport Harbour

Mon, nov 3rd 2014, 11:29 am.

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama - The cruise ship Bahamas Celebration, which travels between Grand Bahama and South Florida, has been grounded until further notice after it ran aground outside Freeport Harbour on Friday night. While Celebration Cruise Line officials didn't give an update up to press time yesterday, the cruise line's website proclaimed that there would be no sailing during the first half of November. The Freeport News understands that the incident caused a small hole in the vessel, which was repaired over the weekend. Bahamas Celebration made its normal departure at 9 p.m. on Friday, en route to the Port of Palm Beach, but was forced to turn around after it struck an unknown object in the water while leaving Freeport Harbour. The company informed in a press release on Saturday that passengers aboard the cruise ship were asked to wear life jackets and adhere to the necessary emergency procedures. The ship returned to Freeport and the passengers and crew were placed in accommodations at various hotels, courtesy of Celebration Cruise Line. There were no injuries reported. The Freeport News was informed that 960 passengers and crew were on board at the time of the incident. The cruise line disclosed that arrangements were made for passengers to return to Florida on Saturday evening on board the Bimini SuperFast. The passengers arrived in Miami on Saturday night and were subsequently transported to West Palm Beach. "No passengers were ever in any danger and everything was handled in an organized and efficient way," the release said. While the Celebration remains docked in The Bahamas, passengers with tickets are to be refunded or offered "other arrangements" according to a press release. Jamar McPhee, a Grand Bahama native who was supposed to return on the Bahamas Celebration Saturday night, told The Freeport News that "due to the unfortunate situation involving the Celebration, the company has been trying to assist us in making other travel arrangements". The ship remains at Freeport Harbour, leaning on its left side.

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian

FBI investigating 'suspicious death' of woman on Carnival cruise ship

The unidentified female was pronounced dead on the ship of unknown causes.

The FBI is investigating a "suspicious death" of a female passenger aboard a Carnival cruise ship while it was en route to the Bahamas .

The incident occurred on Carnival's Sunshine during its Feb. 27 voyage from the United States to Nassau, Bahamas, when medical staff and other crew members aboard the ship were made aware of an unresponsive passenger and life-saving measures were immediately attempted, according to a statement from the FBI's field office in Columbia, South Carolina.

MORE: Fisherman missing after going overboard while hooking 'huge' tuna on fishing trip

Despite the crew's best efforts, the unidentified female passenger was pronounced dead on the ship of currently unknown causes, though Carnival released a subsequent statement indicating that they believe the passenger died of natural causes.

"While we continue to cooperate with authorities, all indications pertaining to the death of a guest on board Carnival Sunshine suggest that it was a natural death due to a medical condition," Carnival said in the statement released on Tuesday. "We will defer to the FBI on any specific details which may possibly be released at a later date as we fully respect the investigative process, but our initial emergency medical response was appropriate and it appears that this was indeed a medical situation that sadly resulted in the death of a guest."

PHOTO: The FBI is investigating a “suspicious death” of a female passenger aboard a Carnival's Sunshine cruise ship while it was en route to the Bahamas.

This incident remains under investigation by the FBI.

"The FBI investigates certain crimes on the high seas, as well as suspicious deaths of U.S. persons," the FBI said. "As such, FBI Evidence Response Team (ERT) members responded to process the passenger's room once the ship returned to the Charleston port on March 4."

MORE: 9-year-old boy missing after falling off pontoon boat, being hit by propeller

The "suspicious death" was isolated, according to the FBI, and there was no threat to any other passengers before or after the passenger was found deceased.

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EXCLUSIVE: Alleged personal account and video footage from aftermath of deadly boat explosion

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS — A woman who claims that she is a passenger on board the Nieuw Amsterdam crusie ship, where two crew members were killed after a steam pipe in the engine room reportedly exploded on Friday, March 22, 2024, told Eyewitness News (EWN) exclusively Friday evening that a “somber mood hangs over the ship in the aftermath of the fatal incident” and alleged that crew members have provided very little updates concerning what happened.

The female informant, who wished to remain anonymous, provided EWN with her account and exclusive video footage, which she said shows the bodies of the deceased being taken off the cruise ship and onto another vessel identified as “Anne Bonny,” Friday evening.

“It’s a very somber feeling throughout the boat. A lot of us feel like they downplayed the whole thing. This morning they acted like it was a small steam leak and no fire, all fire alarms were going off, but they just let us carry on,” she said.

“When we came back from our day at Half Moon Cay they delivered the shocking news.”

She continued, “There have been no updates as to what caused this tragedy, no mention of how old the crew members were, The Holland American cruise Director is Gage Griffin and he was visibly shaken by the whole thing. He could barely speak when he got up on stage to say a few words to the guest. He was crying a lot.”

She said, “I am on the cruise for another 7 days, others will exit tomorrow.”

The video footage the female informant provided showed what appeared to be two body bags being carried onto Anne Bonny. In the footage, which lasted approximately 59 seconds, a woman police officer, who appeared to be clad in the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) uniform, could be seen on the upper deck of Anne Bonny.

“They kicked off all guest off the upper decks so they couldn’t see the bodies being transported, but my room has a deck where I was able to see,” the female informant said.

She also told EWN, “The bodies have been transported off (the vessel to) Half Moon Cay.”

Half Moon Cay is a 2,400-acre private island retreat for passengers on Holland America’s cruises.

Authorities reported the incident to local media just before 3:00pm on Friday. But the female informant alleged that the incident happened Friday morning.

“The fire alarms sounded around 8:30 am; they didn’t treat it like a fire drill or nothing. The captain announced there’s a report of a fire but he’ll look into it and not to panic. Minutes later he said there is no fire and there’s a steam leak. We all got off the boat and everything was fine they treated it like it was nothing.”

“We got back on the boat at 2pm and it was around 4pm where the captain announced that two crew members lost their lives earlier. I don’t think someone died at 3:00 pm. That’s weird! That was also the time the ship was supposed to leave port. We were stuck here till around 6:00 pm.”

Police told EWN Friday evening that the incident is under active investigation.

The Nieuw Amsterdam crusie ship is Holland America’s second signature-class ship, and is the fourth ship to bear the name. The ship sails Mediterranean itineraries in spring and summer, then moves on to the Caribbean for the winter months.

It was built in 2010; however, there was no update on when it was last refurbished.

It is unclear if the ship will be able to sail to continue its voyage or if passengers will have to be taken to their place of origin by another vessel.

The cruise line, via a statement posted to its social media account, said, “We regret to share that while calling at Half Moon Cay, The Bahamas, there was an incident in an engineering space on board Nieuw Amsterdam, which sadly resulted in the death of two crew members.”

“The appropriate authorities were notified, and the cause of the incident is currently being investigated.”

The online post continued, “All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time. The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority. We are offering counseling services to team members who may have been affected by this incident.”

About Theo Sealy

So inappropriate! How would you feel if this was your family member and what should be private footage was out there for the world to see? And the comments about being downplayed. – what should they have done – cause panic on the ship when the problem was already solved?

This “informant” is really not telling the truth! We were well informed the WHOLE time! It is a tragedy to many! She really brought negativity to this horrible accident! When the captain announced to us what happened, he was choking back his tears….i feel it’s not our business to know the ages of the people who lost their lives…

This informant definitely had a different perspective than me and my family. The announcements were timely and gave the appropriate amount of information. She was right that the ship and crew were somber which is understandable. The Captain handled it all very professionally, fighting back his emotions.

The crew handled it very respectfully and we are going another 7 days on the ship. Yes it was heartbreaking and sadly very tragic. The day was somber as it should have been. We grieve with the families and crew members. Thank you for the excellent handling of the tragic incident by the Captain and crew ❤️

I am ex crewmember from Indonesia and worked for the same company since 1983 till 2004.Nobody knows it was incident of human error or pure unexpected incident since there was no withness .But theprinciple point is,let us pray and put our thoughts to the passed away victims in hoping that God gives them the peaceful place in the heaven…and let their families deserve the appropriate compensation accordingly.

Absolutely ghoulish and disgusting. This informant should be ashamed of herself. I have only read the account and have no intention of watching a video of extreme poor taste.

I was aboard the ship at the time. We, the passengers were informed as much as needed for our safety and understanding. The Captain did a wonderful job while trying to withhold his obvious sadness. As a guest, I didn’t need to know their names or ages but was pleased that the Captain held a long moment of silence to offer our prayers for the men and their families.

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Celebration passengers describe chaotic scene

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Cruise Ship Breaks Free from Moorings in Bahamas – Incident Video

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A large cruise ship broke free from its moorings due to strong winds in Freeport, Bahamas on Wednesday.

A video of the cruise ship during the incident was posted to Facebook. According to the post:

The M/V Grand Celebration has broken her moorings in Freeport, Bahamas and is laying hard against the wharf at Freeport’s cruise terminal. The NW Bahamas is currently under a severe weather warning with wind gusts in the 35-50kt range. Update: Incident took place at approximately 1808UTC this afternoon. The Grand Celebration now appears to be safely moored in a different berth.

The MS Grand Celebration is the sole cruise operated by Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. The ship was originally built for Carnival Cruise Lines in 1987 but has been owned by Bahamas Paradise since 2014.

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Two crew members die after ‘explosion’ on cruise in the Bahamas

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Cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam is seen at the dock of Venice Cruise Termina

Two crew members on a luxury cruise ship died during an ‘explosion’ while in the Bahamas.

They were part of the staff on board a 2,100-capacity ship owned by Holland America.

It had sailed from Florida last week for a seven-night trip taking in the Caribbean.

The unidentified crew members died on Friday while the Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.

Florida maritime lawyer Jim Walker said he had been sent photos of the aftermath of the incident by other crew, who told him a steam compensator exploded while the men were working nearby.

The victims were trapped and scalded to death when steam was released into the room, he said.

A photo of the steam room after the inciden

Travel blogger Laine Doss, who was on board when the news was announced to passengers, wrote on her website : ‘At 3pm, when the Captain asked for our attention, I was convinced it was a weather announcement.

‘Instead, he announced that two crew members were killed in an engine room accident. I was working on my computer at the Ocean Bar, a lovely venue with panoramic views. Suddenly, the convivial chatter and clink of glasses turned somber as we heard the captain’s voice break as he announced the news. One woman started crying. The rest of us lifted our glasses in tribute.’

She said she had been ashore at the time of the incident, but another guest she spoke to said ‘they witnessed the ship release a plume of white steam earlier that day, but nothing else seemed awry’.

Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said.Crew members were being offered counselling.

‘All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,’ the statement said.

‘The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.’

The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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About the Grand Celebration

Grand Celebration is perfect for short and popular getaway sailings. The 47,200-ton, 1,900-guest cruise ship boasts a convivial feel combined with favorite features that are reminiscent of cruises of the past, such as enticing midnight buffets, reserved set-seating for dinner and more.

Step aboard and feel the good time vibe of the Grand Celebration with a lively fun atmosphere with flowing tropical cocktails, pool parties and live music. Throughout your cruise, you will be looked after by the friendly staff to make sure you are having a fabulous time. Let your cares melt away in a stress-free laid-back casual ambiance as you enjoy something exciting from the moment you board. Fabulous amenities include several bars and lounges, pools, exciting entertainment, a huge theater, a spa with lots of delightful rejuvenating treatments and a hair salon.

Fun is offered to all age groups on this family-friendly ship. The complimentary Kids Club offers supervised aged specific activities. A kids' pool, toys, videogames, parties and a small theater are just some of the features, while a jungle gym and gaming consoles keep older children happy. Teens will want to hang out at an arcade room with board games and more.

Bring your appetite because you will have lots of places to dine, including a stunning main restaurant where you can savor delicious cuisine in a lovely setting. Delight your taste buds at various specialty restaurants and enjoy grilled fare and an amazing selection at the seemingly endless buffet. You won't want to miss the delicious offerings at the midnight buffet and you can also satisfy your cravings at anytime with a simple call as room-service is available 24/7.

Select from a variety of staterooms that were created for your comfort. Whether you stay in an Interior, Oceanview or the stunning Terrace Suites (some with a balcony) and accommodating up to four or five guests. Perks in this exclusive category include a mini-bar, priority debarkation and a spa tub. All accommodations will make you feel comfy and at home. Feel rested on your queen-sized bed that can convert to twin beds and enjoy the living space.

Evenings are filled with exciting entertainment choices. Whether you are at a fun party under the stars, watching a fabulous Las Vegas-style show, singing along at the piano bar or enjoying your favorite drink at one of the many bars and lounges, something special will provide a fabulous time. Try your luck at the thrilling casino, boasting a variety of popular games.

Cruise on the Grand Celebration on year-round short getaways to Grand Bahama Island roundtrip from the Port of Palm Beach.

Grand Terrace Suite

The Terrace Suites are our most popular staterooms, and it isn’t hard to see why. Privately tucked away on Deck 11, you’ll find only 14 of them four decks above the other staterooms. These suites come in three categories – the Terrace Suites, Deluxe Terrace Suites, and Grand Terrace Suites – all stylishly furnished, boasting ample lounge room, and featuring a scenic balcony. This room category comes with a host of perks, including priority debarkation, a minibar, and a deep spa tub. These suites allow up to four to five guests.

Deluxe Terrace Suite

Terrace Suite

Oceanview Stateroom

Spread out and enjoy extra space and tons of natural light in your Oceanview Stateroom. Amenities include a TV, desk, a private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, storage space, and a large window with gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea. These staterooms allow up to four guests.

Interior Stateroom

Lounge in complete comfort with an Interior Stateroom. Amenities include a TV, desk, a private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, and ample storage space. These staterooms allow up to four guests.

View Deck Plan

Admiralty Club

Celebrate a special occasion with a delicious 5-course meal and excellent service in the elegant Admiralty Club.

Stellar Prime

Our main dining room features a different menu every day. Feast on freshly-prepared entrees and chef-crafted favorites like Honey Glazed Salmon. Start the day with a hearty breakfast and cap it off with desserts so delightful, that we could only call them "Sweet Endings."

Ocean View Buffet

At the Ocean View Buffet, you’ll find options for every meal of the day. Enjoy a selection of breakfast foods or ask our chefs to customize an omelet. Come back and mix it up with dishes from our salad, pasta, or carving stations, as well as made to order pizza! Stay up for our late-night buffet, serving Mediterranean mezze on the first night and Mexican favorites the second.

Plunge Grill

Take the plunge with your favorite barbeque dish at Plunge Grill. Located poolside, Plunge Grill serves fresh classics when you’re done with your dip. This staple spot fires up juicy and tender hamburgers, hot dogs, sausages, and more. Grab a beer and you’re in cookout heaven! Late breakfast buffet also available.

Decks: 12 10

Dancing Martian

If you're looking for a great outdoor party then join us at the Dancing Martian above the pool for the Ultimate Glow Party. Our DJ kicks this party in high gear with pulsating dance music and light show.

Vibe is a full arcade room with interactive games and a 6-foot basketball shooting contest game, with plenty of space for our adolescent cruisers to meet new friends and hangout.

Looking for poolside fun? Enjoy our frequently organized pool deck glow parties. Soak up the pool fun with 2 adult pools.

Ocean Breeze

On the second day of your cruise, you’ll find more than just drinks at the Ocean Breeze Bar. Starting at 2:30 PM, we’ll serve up mouthwatering briskets and sausages, all made from meat that’s been smoked for over the course of fourteen hours. Enjoy this hearty mid-afternoon meal by the pool or the bar. While lunch from the Ocean Breeze Bar is included in your cruise fare, it does not include beverages from the bar - even though the food is included, drinks are not included.

Many people love a quick coffee to get them going, and so do we. That’s why we have baristas on board to brew up specialty beverages, so you can get your fix on! Grab a cup to start your day. Lattetude also serves up smoothies, hot chocolate, and other treats!

La Piscina (Pool)

La Piscina (Pool).

Enjoy Caribbean music by day and sing karaoke by night.

Ship Shape Fitness Center

Ship Shape Fitness Center.

Indulgence Spa & Wellness Center

Destress your body, mind, and soul with therapeutic massages, body wraps, and other salon treatments carried out by well trained and talented spa professionals at the Indulgence Spa & Salon.

Voltage Night Club

Come experience the ship's sizzling hotspot for an unleashed surge of nightlife fun. Set the dance floor on fire with all your best moves. It's loud, alive and full of energy.

Experience international wine tasting on-board with R&B, Blues, Latin and classic rock music at this intimate jazz club.

Paradice casino

Get the dice rolling at the Vegas-style Par-a-Dice Casino with new and classic Table Games and Slots to bet on your luck and skill.

Encore Lounge

Throw back a few drinks with your loved ones as you enjoy the live performance band for the evening.

Memories Photo Gallery

Memories Photo Gallery.

Island of Adventures

Legends Grand Theater

Laugh your hearts out at the stand-up comedy show or enjoy live music and dance performances at the Legends Grand Theatre on-board the MV Grand Celebration.

Club Chill.

Commodore Bar (martini Libations)

Sip on any of our specialty martinis with classical favorites and lilting tunes playing in the background.

Strike a Pose

Forget me Knots, Splurge and Puffs

Aries Conference Room

Aries Conference Room.

Customer Service

Customer Service.

Cyber Surf.

Kruzers Pool

Kruzers Pool.

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'These are very sensitive issues': Passenger blames this cruise line for sexual assault incident

RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. — For the second time this year, a former Margaritaville at Sea passenger is claiming to be a victim of sexual assault filed suit against the cruise line.

Investigative reporter Dave Bohman has been digging into the details of the lawsuit and was told that the alleged assault did "not take place on the ship."

A woman, identified only as Jane Doe in the lawsuit, said she took a Margaritaville at Sea cruise back in August 2023. The ship docked in Freeport, Bahamas.

Her lawsuit claimed the cruise line Concora, the company that operates Margaritaville at Sea, arranged for her to stay at a Wyndham Hotel in Freeport.

She claims she was assaulted at the Wyndham Hotel and blames the cruise line for putting her up at the hotel, because she was a passenger who didn't have a room on the ship.

The lawsuit claims "she left her room at night to get a drink of water," where a hotel worker forced her, "into the control room for the resort's theater, locked the door, and then raped (her)."

Alex Perrez attorney for Margaritaville at Sea victim June 2024.png

"These are very sensitive issues," Alex Perez, the victim’s lawyer, said.

In the lawsuit, the woman alleges there was evidence of a sexual assault at the hotel in 2016, that the cruise line should have warned her about.

"Once there's a reason to know the danger you have to inform the passengers,” Perez said, “so they can make informed decisions about what they're going to do."

I called and emailed both the parent company of Margaritaville at Sea, and Wyndham Resorts to get their side of the story but did not get a response.

This is the second lawsuit filed in recent months filed by a Margaritaville passenger who blamed the cruise line for a sexual assault.

A West Virginia woman claims she was raped by a ship's bartender and became pregnant .

The case was settled, and the bartender is now serving time in a federal prison.

The recent lawsuit faults the cruise line for not warning the woman of the dangers of Freeport noting, "between 2018-19, the U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for the Bahamas, specifically including Freeport, warning that violent crime, including sexual assault, is common."

Travel agent Jeanne Knight JUNE 2024.png

"And we think that's something the cruise line should have echoed to the passengers," Perez said.

I spoke with travel agent Jeanne Knight, who specializes in booking cruises, about what travelers should know about visiting Freeport.

"You're always safer in a group, right? Whether you're hanging out by the pool or staying at home,” Knight said, “there's safety in numbers."

There is not police report in Freeport mentioned in the lawsuit.

And again, the alleged assault took place in a hotel, not on the ship.

The woman is suing Margaritaville at Sea, because the suit claims it arranged for her hotel accommodations, and in her lawyers opinion, was at least partly responsible for her safety.

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Pictures show summer solstice 2024 at Stonehenge

By Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: June 20, 2024 / 6:51 PM EDT / CBS News

The summer solstice on Thursday signals the end of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the start of a brand-new season, one that promises more warmth and more sunlight. To mark the transition into summer 2024, the astronomical event serves as a kind of grand opening: everywhere above the equator, it will be the longest day of the year.

At Stonehenge , an prehistoric monument of massive stones that is now a protected heritage site in southern England, historians believe ancient people built a ceremonial circular structure from enormous sarsen stones with a specific intention to honor and celebrate the solstice.

Mysteriously erected around 2,500 B.C.E., Stonehenge is thought to be a spiritual or ritual ground of some sort, although the true reasons why people conceived of the idea to build it, and what they may have used it for, are still unknown. The stones were raised and meticulously arranged in the late Neolithic, or Stone Age, period —a time when creating such a monument would have been a brilliant feat of advanced construction and engineering.

To a person standing in the center of Stonehenge, the layout is oriented so that the stones frame, with precision, the sunrise on the summer solstice and the sunset on the winter solstice . Thousands of people flock to the site each year on both solstices to witness the phenomenon for themselves.

Just a day before this year's summer solstice, climate protesters sprayed Stonehenge with orange paint to make a statement against fossil fuels. The organization that manages the Stonehenge site, English Heritage, told CBS News the incident was "extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage," but that the monument remained open to the public.

What is the summer solstice?

The solstice is technically the kickoff to summer in the Northern Hemisphere, with its inverse, the winter solstice, simultaneously ushering in winter across the Southern Hemisphere.

It occurs when Earth, which is tilted 23.5 degrees on its axis , reaches the maximum point at which the planet's northern half is oriented towards the sun since the summer solstice last came around. Because Earth is constantly rotating on its axis and simultaneously orbiting the sun, this tilt offers each hemisphere the chance to bathe in its longest extent of daylight only one per year.

Seasons exist on Earth because of the 23.5-degree tilt. As the planet is spinning and traveling its orbital path over roughly 365 days , Earth's slanted axis means the angles at which different parts of its surface face the sun shift throughout the year. During the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice, which usually falls on either June 20 or June 21 — it's June 20 this year — those cosmic mechanics nudge the top of the planet forward the sun. At the North Pole, six months of daylight commence, while at the South Pole, it means six months of darkness instead.

Conditions reverse six months later, when Earth arrives at a point in its orbit where the axis tips it back so that the South Pole is nearest the sun. On that day, typically Dec. 21 or 22, the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere brings the shortest stretch of daylight, while the Southern Hemisphere begins its summer.

Crowds gathered at Stonehenge in December to mark the winter solstice as well.

Winter solstice at Stonehenge in December 2023

Why is June 20 the longest day of 2024?

The North Pole is never as skewed toward the sun as it is during the summer solstice. That pronounced tilt exposes a larger section of the Northern Hemisphere to sunlight at one time than it does at any other point in Earth's revolution. From the perspective of a person on the ground, that exposure creates the longest period of daylight in 24 hours to occur all year.

This year, the North Pole reaches its most extreme tilt at 4:51 p.m. EDT on June 20, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The sun is then directly over the Tropic of Cancer, a longitudinal line at wraps horizontally around the circumference of the Earth at 23.5 degrees above the equator. The line runs through Mexico, the Bahamas, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India and southern China.

On the other end of the cycle, when the North Pole is tilted as far as possible away from the sun, the section of the Northern Hemisphere that sunlight can reach is as small as it can be. That's why the winter solstice is the shortest day of the year for people above the equator, and the longest day of the year for people below.

How summer solstice has been celebrated throughout history

The summer solstice is an occasion that civilizations have observed and celebrated for millennia. Historians believe the Neolithic people who constructed Stonehenge were part of a broader ancient culture in northern and central Europe that, experts say, did seem to acknowledge the solstice and changing seasons as they related to agriculture and, potentially, the timing of crop cycles.

The British nonprofit National Trust writes in an overview of ancient solstice traditions that the event "was typically marked by Celtic, Slavic and Germanic people by lighting bonfires, intended to boost the sun's strength for the remainder of the crop season and ensure a healthy harvest." Other Neolithic stone circles somewhat like Stonehenge also appear to have been built with the solstices in mind, according to the organization.

These days, people mark the solstice with their own take on the traditional ceremonies of ancient times. Festivals and bonfires are common in communities around the world. But there are myriad ways in which modern-day people acknowledge Earth's seasonal transit. Depending on where it takes place, a celebration of the summer solstice can look like a baseball game at midnight in Fairbanks, Alaska, or an all-day mass yoga gathering in Times Square.

Summer Solstice

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

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Carnival cancels 2 planned cruises from Port Canaveral after ship catches fire

Passengers on a Carnival cruise ship that caught fire over the weekend disembarked at Port Canaveral on Monday.

▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

Videos sent to Ch. 9 show dark smoke and flames coming from the Carnival Freedom’s exhaust funnel on Saturday.

Carnival says lightning may be to blame.

In response to this fire, the next two cruises on the ship have been canceled.

Read: 2 crew members killed on Holland America cruise ship during incident onboard

The ship was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday, and then again on Friday.

The fire was reported while the ship was near the Bahamas.

Passengers reported seeing lightning strike the boat, but the investigation is still underway.

Read: New cruise line coming to Port Canaveral this year

Carnival Cruise Lines released the following statement:

Carnival Freedom experienced a fire in the port side of the exhaust funnel on Saturday. Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire. While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport today. Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral.

The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs.

We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both cancelled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Carnival cancels 2 planned cruises from Port Canaveral after ship catches fire

Disney World | First look: Disney Cruise Line’s new port is…

Things To Do

Theme parks, disney world, disney world | first look: disney cruise line’s new port is big on bahamas, passengers out of port canaveral now experience new stop with cultural themes, natural beauty.

Mickey and Minnie join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024, a colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers at the Goombay Cultural Center during "Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration" at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers parade through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point during RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade features dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

A walkway leads out to the beach at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features pink sand beaches and crystal-clear water, with areas that cater to families and adult-exclusive areas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features pink sand beaches and clear turquoise water, with areas that cater to families and adult-exclusive areas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Guests at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, enjoy the clear turquoise water on the island retreat on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Rush Out, Gush Out Water Play, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is a water play area for all ages featuring slides and various water features to cool off in while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests explore Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The island retreat, built to feature Bahamian culture into the design, has nature trails, a water play area and beaches for families and adults. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Watering Hole Bar, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is one of four bars at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey and Minnie join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024, a colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers at the Goombay Cultural Center during RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade features dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

The Nature Trail at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, takes guests to the easternmost end of Eleuthera, where the Lighthouse, that Disney's newest destination in the Bahamas, is named for. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

The Nature Trail at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, takes guests to Lighthouse on the easternmost end of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

True-True BBQ is one of the main dining areas at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, with Bahamian-inspired menu items such as Bahamian pigeon peas and rice and Bahamian-style lime-marinated grilled snapper. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

An open-air dining pavilion, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, outside of True-True BBQ, one of the main dining areas at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, offers a spot in the shade to have lunch while at Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests make their way from the Disney Magic to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Family Beach Cabanas at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, offer private spaces that can be rented at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Serenity Bay Cabanas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, offer private spaces that can be reserved adjacent to the adult-exclusive beach at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests have their picture taken at the entrance of the main beach and visitor area of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities like Goofy’s Good Day Limbo at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities like Pluto’s Pineapple Ring Toss at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

The Play-Play Pavilion at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The pavilion is home to the Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, featuring a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities and games. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Sebastian’s Cove, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a Little Mermaid-themed water play area at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests board a tram that will take them to the main beach and visitor area of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024.(Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney T’ings, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is the primary store where guests can get Disney island-inspired merchandise and souvenirs on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Turbot Berth, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is where Disney Cruise Line guests can check in for a charter boat reservation at the entrance of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Guests at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, snorkel to take a glimpse below the clear turquoise water at the island retreat on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

A view of the bridge that leads to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point from the Disney Magic, while docked at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy a day at the island retreat. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Its location on Eleuthera — a long, thin island in the Bahamas east of Nassau — provided an obvious start, and Disney leaned into the theme with the resort’s architecture, art, music, food, conservation efforts, cultural touchstones and entertainment options — including a raucous, cowbell-heavy celebration on the beach.

“We’re not putting you into a fictitious place. We’re not setting you into a different time. It’s here and now,” said Kevin Thomas, Walt Disney Imagineering creative director on the project.

Creative Director for Walt Disney Imagineering Kevin Thomas at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Lookout Cay opened this month and is being visited primarily by DCL ships sailing out of Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale and Galveston, Texas.

“We thought about how many people are going to be experiencing the Bahamas for the first time, coming from around the world, the journey here and what can they take back,” Thomas said. “Not only that group but also those that have experienced the Bahamas and other destinations prior to this visit … We wanted to give a very unique experience to that.”

Central to the planning was a junkanoo — a year-end Bahamian celebration with music, dancing and bright, hand-crafted costumes. The Disney version includes Mickey Mouse and friends in new island wear created by Bahamian designer Theo Elyett.

Junkanoo performers at the Goombay Cultural Center during

Performers for “Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration” parade to a beat from near the resort entrance, through the mini marketplace and to the beach-facing Goombay Cultural Center for a bouncy performance before reversing their course.

The space is also a spot where kids can create junkanoo headpieces.

“We had an entire team dedicated to understanding what is junkanoo? What does it mean to the locals? What does it mean to the Bahamian culture?” said Rachel Quinn, vice president entertainment operations.

“The word authenticity is used a lot, but this was our north star,” she said.

Disney Cruise Line's newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, pictured Saturday, June 8, 2024, features pink sand beaches and crystal-clear water, with areas that cater to families and adult-exclusive areas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

“Junkanoo is a celebration of our tradition,” said Warren Andrew Pinder of the National Junkanoo Committee. “Our culture is colorful, is expressed through music, dance, a vibrancy led by the beat — that beat that we really cherish.”

The junkanoo show’s sounds waft across the pinkish sands and piercing blue waters of the beach. The site also includes an adults-only section, water-play areas, a nature trail and clusters of private cabanas.

There are multiple bars and a trio of restaurants with menus that include grilled spiced mahi-mahi with mango and pan-served Bahamian pigeon peas and rice.

An entertainment option on the southern end of the beach is the Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, a character-driven family games session accompanied by Disney music with Caribbean remixes. Music producer Victor Johnson fashioned these renditions.

“I actually watched a lot of the cartoons and put kind of my own Caribbean beat to it just watching cartoons on mute,” he said. “I kind of came up with a few genres, like subgenres, because our original genre of the Bahamas is goombay, and that includes junkanoo, rake and scrape and calypso and stuff like that. I came up with a rake and scrape arrangement for the Chip ‘n’ Dale song as well as a little Soka goombay arrangement.”

The task was daunting at first, because the original versions were classics, Johnson said.

“When I got the project, I was very intimidated because these are amazing songs already. But I went to sleep dreaming ‘Ch-Ch-Ch-Chip and Dale,’” he said.

An original song for the experience — “Everything Cool” — was written and performed by Bahamian musicians and recorded on Eleuthera.

The beach elements of Lookout Cay are connected by a curvy, elevated boardwalk.

“We wanted to minimize our impact on the natural environment and also make it accessible to all of our guests,” Thomas said. They also play off the multilevel terrain of the area, a contrast to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island that has been in use by the cruise line since 1998.

“Unlike Castaway, which is pretty flat terrain … this offered a little bit of a variety to that,” Thomas said.

Rush Out, Gush Out Water Play, pictured Saturday, June 8, 2024, is a water play area for all ages featuring slides and various water features to cool off in while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line's newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Structures along this stretch have a high, curved roofline and provide shade, particularly in dining areas.

“The architecture is not traditional, but it has been inspired by the organic nature of what we can find here. With rooftops, the upper portions of all of these are inspired by shell patterns, shells that are bound along the Bahamian shores. … Once you get underneath that you really start to experience man’s touch on this,” Thomas said.

“I think Disney, in particular, gets more cruisers that aren’t necessarily from Florida than maybe some other cruise lines do and therefore if you’ve never been to the Bahamas, it’s a great introduction,” said Matt Roseboom, editor and publisher of Orlando-based Attractions Magazine. “Most people probably don’t know what junkanoo is.”

Disney Cruise Line guests make their way from the Disney Wish to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Disney Cruise Line's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Roseboom previewed the destination last week.

“I think Castaway Cay is all about story and you might not know you’re in the Bahamas necessarily or on Disney’s stranded island,” he said.

“With this new island, it’s a little bit different, and they’re going all in on the Bahamas theme. … There’s really no Disney story to it, just the fact that you were in the Bahamas and here’s some information about Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, where you are.” he said.

Another obvious difference between Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay, which is about 130 miles to the northeast, is seen from the beginning of the visit. As ships approach the new destination, they dock at the end of a long, curved pier.

Disney Cruise Line guests board a tram that will take them to the main beach and visitor area of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Passengers leave the ship, then travel the length of that connection — it’s a 10-15 minute walk — to catch a tram that connects to the bulk of Disney’s beach offerings after about 10 more minutes. But Castaway visitors are on that island right off the ship.

“We chose a pier because it had the least impact on the marine habitats in that area between the shore and where the ship had access,” said Bradley Watson, conservation program manager.

“The ship can only dock in a certain depth of water and, alternatively, some people might have dredged and made that so that the ship can come directly into shore. … Logistically, that would have been easier in the long run. But we chose the hard road,” he said.

The pier has an open-trestle design to minimize the effect on sea life, Disney officials said.

Disney Cruise Line's newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy a day at the island retreat. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

“Beyond just building the pier to go over that area, we relocated over 800 coral from that path to another spot on our site to ensure that they would continue to thrive as we put in that pier,” Watson said. “I think that it’s kind of a marvelous way that we put together infrastructure and nature.”

But for human visitors, the bridge to Lookout is “unusually long,” Roseboom said. “It needs shade; it needs seating. Hopefully, those will be added at some point. … They’re going to have issues with thunderstorms and trying to get back to the ship.”

The new destination includes a nature trail that showcases native species and leads to the namesake lighthouse.

“One of the best things we did is everything we didn’t do. We’re at less than 16% [development] of the site. It’s perfect, in my opinion,” Watson said.

“I’m really excited that Lookout Cay is now a gateway for so many other people to understand what it’s like to be a Bahamian,” he said.

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A Jewish mom and her husband were attacked and beaten at a Brooklyn elementary school graduation by an Arabic-speaking family — who taunted them with shouts of “Free Palestine!” “Gaza is Ours!” and “Death to Israel!” she told The Post.

The mayhem erupted at PS 682 in Gravesend just after the school’s fifth-grade graduation — which was themed, ironically, “All you need is love.”

Instead, the Jewish woman’s husband was thrown to the ground by members of the other family. One man put him in a chokehold, he said. Others grabbed his legs as they kicked and punched him. One woman repeatedly whacked him with the sharp heel of a black stiletto, the mom told police.

A distressed Jewish family at a Brooklyn elementary school graduation being verbally attacked by another family

“They targeted my family because we are Jewish,” said the mother, whose 10-year-old twins witnessed the assaults.

“A graduation event that was supposed to be joyous and memorable turned into a violent and traumatizing one.”

It was one of the worst outbursts of antisemitism in NYC public schools since the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack in Israel and war in Gaza, because it escalated beyond words, said Tova Plaut, a city educator and advocate for Jewish peers.

“We consistently warned that tolerating overtly antisemitic views would create a toxic environment for Jewish students and families, inevitably leading to physical violence,” Plaut said. “This has now occurred.”

The Jewish mom, Lana, and her husband Johan, a Dominican who is Catholic, recounted their horrific experience to The Post in frustration because the NYPD did not classify the incident as a hate crime.

But after the couple urged the NYPD to reconsider, a spokesperson said Saturday, “The Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating the incident.”

The Post is withholding the couple’s last names to protect their children’s privacy and safety.

The graduation ceremony itself was uneventful, but Lana’s mother was upset when one student marched across the stage wearing his graduate cap marked “Free Palestine” and waving a small Palestinian flag. The grandma walked out.

A Jewish dad at a Brooklyn elementary school graduation being attacked by a group of people surrounding him on the ground

A school administrator told another parent that the city Department of Education’s legal staff had okayed the display as an expression of free speech.

After the event concluded, Lana and Johan started to take pictures with their two kids in front of a PS 682 banner and balloons when relatives of the boy with the flag tried to push them out of the way, she said.

“We told them there was space for both families,” Lana said. “An older man turned to us and said ‘Free Palestine!’ for no reason. My husband told him this was not the time or place for that but the man cursed at him in Arabic, and shouted, “Free Palestine, Gaza is Ours, Death to Israel.”

Johan with red bruising to head in the aftermath of an altercation with another family

While Johan argued with the older man and told him to back off, another man “just came out of nowhere, punched me in the head and it was a scuffle,” he said. “From there, I don’t remember, because there was so much going on and so many people on top of me. Then I was put on a chokehold. Somebody was holding my leg. It was chaotic.”

Their 16-year- old son tried to help his dad, but he was punched in the face.

Lana walked toward her son and managed to record a glimpse of the scene with her cell phone — capturing a group holding her husband down, jostling and loud shrieks — before she, too, was assaulted.

“A woman from the group came up from behind me, pulled me by the hair, and knocked me down on the ground, shouting, ‘I will kill you,’” she said.

Lana screamed, “Call the cops! Call the cops!”

No security was on site. Two male teachers rushed over to break up the attack.

Man showing injuries on his arm after confrontation at PS 682

Johan was taken to Maimonides Medical Center with scrapes, bruises and swelling on his head, face and body, photos show. Lana suffered a gash on her leg. Their teen son had a bloody nose.

Cops made one arrest: Ez-Al Dean Bazar, 26, who punched and dragged Johan, according to a criminal complaint filed by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office. The complaint makes no mention of his motive.

Bazar was released on his own recognizance. He and his lawyer did not return messages seeking comment.

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The NYPD did not call the assault a hate crime, telling Lana “nothing on my body says I am Jewish,” she said.

But she and her kids are well-known in the school as Jewish. The twins proudly displayed their Jewish – and Dominican – roots on self-portraits displayed at a recent art show. Lana did not know the other family, but her son was in a class with their son last year.

Children posing with artwork of self-portraits incorporating the Star of Davis and flags

DOE spokesman Nathaniel Styer refused to say how school officials classified the fracas.

“Graduations should be times of celebration and joy, and we strongly denounce anyone who acts in a violent or aggressive way during such events,” he said.

But he shifted blame to Lana and Johan as well: “Initial reports we have received from multiple witnesses indicate that both families engaged in aggressive behavior, but we are still investigating the matter and are simultaneously engaging with families as we work towards a resolution.”

Children's self-portrait displaying the Star of David symbol illustrating their identity

Lana disputed the statement, insisting no one in her family provoked the attack, and that school staff told the arresting officer that members of the other family were the aggressors.

“My husband was trying to de-escalate the situation,” she said. “The DOE is trying to sweep it under the rug to avoid further scrutiny of this heinous antisemitic act.”

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Princess cruises unveils exclusive vip package for "the love boat" celebration at sea cruise with revered original cast.

Super Fans to Experience Up-Close Cast Encounters & Exclusive Access Aboard Enchanted Princess Canada/New England Voyage, August 31-Sept. 7, 2024

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. , June 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- For die-hard "The Love Boat" fans, the ultimate cruise experience just dropped anchor. Princess Cruises has announced an exclusive VIP package for its late August Love Boat themed cruise that promises intimate, up-close interactions with the show's beloved characters – Doc, Gopher, Isaac, and Vicki Stubing – including the rare opportunity to perfect the Isaac finger point while mingling with the stars.

Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (aka Vicki) will join fellow Love Boat cast members including Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher) and Ted Lange (Isaac) for the highly anticipated second themed cruise aboard the Enchanted Princess voyage to Canada /New England, August 31-Sept. 7, 2024 . Ezra Freeman , the bartender from the recently aired "The Real Love Boat" reality dating series on CBS and Paramount+, also will sail with the stars.

The new Love Boat VIP Package with exclusive access to the cast, includes:

Exclusive Cast Cocktail Party – practice the Isaac finger point

Reserved Seating at the Q&A in the Princess Theater – hear fascinating stories from the cast reminiscing about their favorite show memories, with premier seating

Front-of-Line Access for the Cast Meet & Greet – be first in line and get camera ready for personal photos and autographs

Dinner with the Cast – sure to be the top-rated dinner party of a lifetime

Love Boat T-shirt and Mug – who doesn't love some nostalgic swag with the original show logo?

Signed Cast Photo – get a frame ready to commemorate this incredible experience.

With limited spots available, the price of the Love Boat VIP Package is $450 per person and can be reserved through a Travel Agent or by calling 1-800-Princess, and referencing the Love Boat VIP Package.

"After the tremendous outpouring of love on the first themed cruise, we knew we had to create an exclusive experience for our super fans on the upcoming voyage," said Jill Whelan, Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises. "My castmates and I are highly anticipating the upcoming cruise, where we'll be able to spend more time with these passionate cruisers and fans and we can't wait to hear how the show impacted their lives."

Additional Love Boat -themed activities offered for all guests onboard include:

Sailaway party introducing the cast

Meet-and-Greet photo opportunities

Cocktail demonstration hosted by Ted Lange and Ezra Freeman

Symbolic renewal of vows ceremony, officiated by the Jill Whelan and the ship's Captain

"The Love Boat" episodes airing on Movies Under the Stars and in staterooms

Show trivia with the Cruise Director, Jill Whelan and Ezra Freeman

Specialty cocktails

Love Boat décor, photo backdrops and merchandise

The seven-day Canada /New England Love Boat themed cruise aboard Enchanted Princess sails roundtrip from New York City and visits Boston ; Eastport, Maine ; Saint John, Canada (for Bay of Fundy); and Halifax , Canada.

Princess Cruises was the oceangoing co-star of "The Love Boat," which is credited with bringing cruising to the masses and showcasing the romance of the sea, taking Hollywood's biggest stars to sought-after destinations as story lines always ended on a happy note.

Princess offers well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities. No matter the cruise, Princess delivers a premium vacation with the line's award-winning, signature Princess MedallionClass experience which offers unparalleled service and personalization.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com .

About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/princess-cruises-unveils-exclusive-vip-package-for-the-love-boat-celebration-at-sea-cruise-with-revered-original-cast-302178475.html

SOURCE Princess Cruises

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bahamas celebration
Cruise Ship Breaks Free from Moorings in Bahamas
Bahamas Celebration cruise ship runs aground
Woman Missing From Celebration Cruise

VIDEO

M/S BAHAMAS CELEBRATION former cruise ferry PRINSESSE RAGNHILD
bahamas celebration cabinistas chillin

COMMENTS

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS — A woman who claims that she is a passenger on board the Nieuw Amsterdam crusie ship, where two crew members were killed after a steam pipe in the engine room reportedly exploded on Friday, March 22, 2024, told Eyewitness News (EWN) exclusively Friday evening that a "somber mood hangs over the ship in the aftermath of the fatal incident" and alleged that crew members ...
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The Sun Sentinel contacted Celebration Cruise Line through phone, text, and email but received no response Monday. Some of the ship's 960 passengers all tell a similar story.
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A local newspaper in South Florida is reporting that a man disappeared from the Bahamas Celebration cruise ship operated by Celebration Cruise Line. CBS Miami states that sometime shortly after 2:00 AM last night, the cruise ship notified the U.S. Coast Guard received that a man from South Carolina was missing from the ship. The …
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Grand Celebration is perfect for short and popular getaway sailings. The 47,200-ton, 1,900-guest cruise ship boasts a convivial feel combined with favorite features that are reminiscent of cruises of the past, such as enticing midnight buffets, reserved set-seating for dinner and more. Step aboard and feel the good time vibe of the Grand ...
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‘I just wanted to get off the ship’: Jacksonville passengers fall ill after cruise to Bahamas

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UPDATED: Bahamas Celebration cruise ship runs aground: 'No danger of it sinking'

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