Violent altercations involving passengers sailing on multiple cruise lines have made headlines in recent weeks, and the trend grew more troubling with the latest incident, which remains under investigation.
A 60-year-old man died on board MSC Cruises’ MSC Virtuosa on Saturday, May 3 following an altercation that happened shortly after the ship departed from Southampton, England, on a short weekend cruise to Bruges, Belgium.
Related: US updates alarming UK travel warning as busy cruise season begins
The deadly fight prompted British police to launch an investigation that led to a passenger’s arrest on suspicion of murder. Now, a second passenger has been arrested.
British police have reassured concerned cruisers and local residents that the onboard incident appeared to be isolated, and thanked MSC Virtuosa crew members for their cooperation and assistance.
Doug Parker shared more details on the ongoing cruise ship murder investigation and other cruise news, including a Silversea cruise ship captain who crossed an environmental line, on the May 13th edition of Cruise News Today.
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Second MSC cruise passenger arrested after deadly fight
Transcript:
Cruise News Today with Doug Parker.
Good morning, here’s your cruise news for Tuesday, May 13th.
A second man has been arrested after a passenger died following an altercation aboard the MSC Virtuosa.
Now police say a 56-year-old man from Richmond was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. This following a 57-year-old man who was previously arrested for suspected murder. Both men have already been released on bail.
Related: MSC cruise ship fight leads to death; cruise crew members deported
The incident occurred on May 3rd, shortly after departure from Southampton. Authorities say it appears to be isolated and are asking anyone on board at the time to come forward with information.
And a luxury cruise ship has been fined for sailing into protected waters near Italy’s Capri island on May 3rd.
Silversea cruise ship captain fined for sailing too close to iconic rocks
Silversea’s Silver Ray came within 500 meters of Faraglioni rock formations, violating environmental regulations. Smartphone footage and tracking data confirmed the breach, prompting an $1,100 fine and a warning to the captain from maritime authorities. The incident has reignited calls to designate the area a formal marine protected zone.
And Carnival Miracle has returned to service in Europe after a major dry dock. Yeah, the ship launched its summer season from Lisbon on May 11th, featuring updates like a new Heroes Tribute Bar, a dedicated Chef’s Table, and refreshed public areas. The ship will sail 16 sailings this summer across Europe, including British Isles and the Med.
Related: Carnival shares cruise loyalty news; Royal Caribbean cruiser fined
And then, November it heads to Tampa for Caribbean and Bahamas cruises. Carnival Miracle was launched in 2004.
And cruise stocks were up on Tuesday. Carnival Corporation: up 10%, 22.13. Royal Caribbean: up 4%, 242.18. Norwegian: up 8%, 19.15. And Viking: up 5%, 45.57.
If you have a lead on a story, let us know. [email protected].
Have yourself a great Tuesday. I’m Doug Parker with Cruise News Today.
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