Family of Cruise Passenger Who Fell Overboard on Taylor Swift-Themed Cruise Sues Royal Caribbean for Negligence and Over-Serving Alcohol
The family of a cruise passenger who tragically fell overboard during a Taylor Swift-themed cruise is taking legal action against Royal Caribbean. They claim that the cruise line served the passenger, Dulcie White, too much alcohol, leading to her death. The family alleges that crew members on the Allure of the Seas continuously served Mrs. White seven alcoholic beverages within a short period, despite her visibly intoxicated state. A fellow passenger intervened and took Mrs. White back to her cabin before she fell overboard in front of her daughter, Megan Klewin.
The family's lawsuit against Royal Caribbean includes claims of over-service of alcohol, negligent search and rescue operation, and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Mrs. White had purchased an all-inclusive alcohol package that allowed her to consume 15 drinks per day. The family believes that the cruise company's focus on profits led to the tragedy and is seeking accountability and industry change.
The lawsuit also accuses Royal Caribbean of failing to follow proper rescue protocols, such as not initiating a search and rescue boat launch and not performing a common maneuver used in man overboard situations. Despite the cruise line's claim that they followed procedures and alerted authorities, Mrs. White's body has not been found, leaving her family with lasting emotional distress.
The family's attorney believes that Royal Caribbean's all-you-can-drink packages prioritize profits over passenger safety and hopes to hold the company accountable for Mrs. White's death. The cruise line has declined to comment further on the lawsuit. The family continues to seek justice and closure for their loss, emphasizing the need for responsible alcohol service and proper safety measures on cruise ships.