Yesterday, the crew of Icon of the Seas faced one of their hardest days at sea after a fellow crew member went overboard.

The Oscar alarm sounded just after 7 p.m., and everything stopped. The ship slowed, turned back, and a rescue boat was sent out right away. Everyone watched in silence as life rings were thrown into the water and the rescue team searched the sea to bring their colleague back.

The crew member was quickly recovered from the water. Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the heartbreaking news soon followed that they had passed away.

The crew member, who was part of the bar department, went overboard from Deck 5 while ship’s officers pleaded with him not to jump. Despite their efforts to stop him, he went into the water moments later.

Cruise Hive was the first to report on this tragedy and obtained a statement from Royal Caribbean:

“Our crew immediately initiated a search and rescue operation, but unfortunately the crew member passed away. We extend our condolences to the crew member’s family and loved ones. To respect their privacy, we have no additional details to share.”

The loss has deeply affected both crew and guests, many of whom knew the individual personally. “It’s a painful reminder that every person working at sea is far from home, making sacrifices to support their families,” one crew member said.

Although Icon of the Seas has since resumed its scheduled 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage, the mood onboard remains heavy.

We extend our deepest condolences to the crew member’s family, loved ones, and colleagues. Our thoughts are with all those who worked alongside him and are mourning the loss of a friend and teammate at sea.