Anthem of the Seas Passenger Files Lawsuit

The first of what is expected to be a number of lawsuits against Royal Caribbean, stemming from its decision to sail the Anthem of the Seas into a winter storm, was filed last week in federal court in Miami.

Bruce Simpson, a passenger on the ill-fated sailing into hurricane-force winds and 30-foot-high waves earlier this month, claims the storm caused him to be thrown almost 18 feet against his cabin door and knocked unconscious, injuring his face, torso, and hands. He is seeking punitive damages.

According to the lawsuit, Simpson tried to get medical treatment but was told to stay in his room until the storm calmed.

The suit claims Royal Caribbean acted in negligence when deciding to sail, even though its management was aware of the weather conditions.

“They took a calculated risk when they sent their passengers into the storm, and we don’t think the passengers should be the ones that pay for Royal Caribbean’s lack of judgment,” attorney Jason Itkin said in a written statement.

Royal Caribbean’s Cynthia Martinez told TMR that Royal does not “comment on pending litigation” and “will not be providing a statement or interviews” at this time.

In a statement after the storm, Royal said the “extreme wind and sea conditions” that hit as the ship sailed south were unexpected, and higher than what was forecast.