Royal Caribbean Faces Lawsuit Over Hidden Camera in Cabin Toilet Filming Children
A Royal Caribbean passenger has taken legal action against the cruise line, alleging that up to 960 individuals fell victim to a covert camera onboard. The camera was uncovered by a female passenger in a Symphony of the Seas cabin bathroom on 25th February and promptly reported to ship security. The ship’s stateroom attendant, identified as Arvin Joseph Mirasol from the Philippines, was detained until the Royal Caribbean vessel docked at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.
The lawsuit reveals that videos of children aged between two and 17 were found on Mirasol’s electronic devices. The attendant is accused of sharing images of undressed passengers and capturing them engaging in private activities without consent. Additionally, Mirasol allegedly hid under the bed while recording unsuspecting guests in the nude as they showered. In August, Mirasol, 34, received a 30-year prison sentence after admitting to producing child pornography.
The legal action was filed in the Southern District of Florida by ‘Jane Doe’ and all others affected. The plaintiff claims to have suffered severe emotional distress and physical illness due to the distressing incident. Attorney Jason Margulies, representing the plaintiff, highlighted the escalating issue of sexual assaults, including voyeurism, on cruise ships that require immediate attention.
The lawsuit points out that sexual assaults were deemed “reasonably foreseeable” given previous reports aboard Royal Caribbean ships. Royal Caribbean came under scrutiny in January when it was revealed that nearly 70% of sexual assault cases on US cruises since 2010 occurred on Royal Caribbean or Carnival ships.
Mr. Margulies underlined that Royal Caribbean was aware of the problem since March 2023 when a hidden camera was discovered in a public bathroom on one of its ships. However, the cruise line allegedly failed to take adequate measures to prevent further incidents, leading to the disturbing events that unfolded over three months and impacted up to 960 passengers, including minors.
A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean emphasised their commitment to guest safety and privacy, stating a policy of zero tolerance towards such misconduct. The company reported the incident to law enforcement promptly, terminated the crew member involved, and refrained from further comment due to pending litigation.
The Independent reached out to Royal Caribbean for additional information on the matter. Stay tuned for more travel updates and advice through Simon Calder’s podcast.
Summary:
Royal Caribbean faces legal repercussions following a hidden camera scandal onboard a cruise ship, where a worker filmed unsuspecting passengers, including children. The lawsuit highlights the distress caused to victims and sheds light on the concerning issue of sexual assaults on cruise ships. Despite the cruise line’s commitment to guest safety, questions linger about the efficacy of measures taken to prevent such violations in the future.