In Brief

A Royal Caribbean cruise aboard Wonder of the Seas cut its voyage short, returning to PortMiami after a fight injured multiple adult guests. Local authorities are investigating and injured passengers are being treated in hospital.

Key Points

  • Wonder of the Seas returned to PortMiami due to an onboard fight.
  • Several adult guests were injured; at least two hospitalized.
  • Miami‐Dade Fire Rescue responded as the ship docked.
  • Royal Caribbean says guests are being treated and it is cooperating with authorities.
  • Investigation is ongoing; details about what sparked the altercation remain unclear.

MIAMI, September 15, 2025 (Local10 Newsroom) —

Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was forced to return to PortMiami Monday evening following an altercation onboard that left several guests injured, officials confirm.

Background

The ship had been en route when crew reported a fight among adult passengers. Emergency medical services were alerted, and the vessel turned back to allow injured parties to receive proper care. Miami‐Dade Fire Rescue responded to the ship at the PortMiami dock, specifically at the 1000 block of North America Way. wplg

Witnesses aboard the cruise described chaos near the pool area, including the children’s pool being roped off. The captain later indicated the decision to return was driven by the urgency of medical attention for an injured guest requiring hospitalization. wplg+1

What is Known & What is Unclear

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson released a statement:

“Our team provided medical care to adult guests who were involved in an altercation onboard, and the guests are being treated for their injuries.” wplg+1

Further,

“We notified local authorities and are working closely with them. As this is an ongoing investigation, we have no more information to share at this time.” wplg+1

It is confirmed that two passengers were hospitalized and taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital. wsvn.com What’s not clear yet:

  • The cause or trigger of the altercation.

  • Whether the fight involved more than the two hospitalized individuals.

  • If any legal charges will be filed or what the status of the investigation is.

    • Impact / Next Steps

    Officials from Royal Caribbean and PortMiami authorities are cooperating in the investigation. Injured passengers are receiving medical treatment, and the vessel has been secured and inspected.

    PortMiami and maritime safety regulators may review onboard security protocols to determine whether any procedure failures contributed to the incident. Also expected: statements or charges, if warranted, once investigations conclude. Travelers aboard future sailings may be briefed on any policy or safety changes the cruise line puts into place.

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    Comments

    Shahnaj Shikder | September 17, 2025

    "Such an unfortunate incident 💔 A beautiful journey ended so unexpectedly. Wishing all the injured a quick and full recovery 🙏🚢✨"