Carnival Celebration Responds to Distressed Small Boat En Route to Cozumel – 16 February 2026

On 16 February 2026, the cruise ship Carnival Celebration, operated by Carnival Cruise Line, diverted from its scheduled route in the Western Caribbean to assist a small improvised vessel in distress. The ship was en route to Cozumel, Mexico, as part of a 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary when crew observed the craft taking on water in international waters. Five individuals were safely rescued and brought aboard Carnival Celebration.

The rescue operation was coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard, which provided operational guidance throughout the response. The ship resumed its voyage following the successful rescue.

While underway in international waters along the ship's route toward Cozumel, crew members observed a small improvised boat appearing to take on water and in immediate danger of sinking. Carnival Celebration altered course and initiated rescue procedures. Five individuals were safely brought aboard the ship, and the operation was coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard, which provided operational guidance throughout the response.

Rescued individuals

• Five individuals safely brought aboard Carnival Celebration
• Identities and nationalities not disclosed
• Cause of the vessel's distress not confirmed

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• Five individuals safely brought aboard Carnival Celebration.

The U.S. Coast Guard was coordinated with throughout the rescue operation and provided operational guidance. Carnival Celebration's crew executed the rescue in accordance with international maritime obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which requires shipmasters to assist persons in danger at sea.

Carnival Celebration resumed its scheduled 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary following the successful rescue operation. The ship continued toward its next port call at Cozumel, Mexico.