Wonder of the Seas returns to PortMiami after poolside altercation

A Royal Caribbean cruise ship returned to PortMiami on Monday night after a verbal dispute between passengers escalated into a physical altercation near a pool area, officials said. Miami-Dade County deputies and fire rescue personnel met the Wonder of the Seas when it docked, and two adult passengers were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, authorities and the cruise line said.

Investigators with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office said the incident began as a verbal disagreement that became physical, prompting the ship’s captain to turn the vessel back to port and notify authorities. The ship was reported to have been docked around 8:30 p.m., and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed crews provided medical care on board before transporting the injured guests. According to officials, both passengers declined to press charges.

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson said the line’s medical team treated adult guests involved in the altercation and that the company notified and is cooperating with local authorities in their ongoing investigation. “As this is an ongoing investigation, we have no more information to share at this time,” the spokesperson added.