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Introduction
A 73-year-old British-Czech passenger aboard Holland America Line’s (HAL) Nieuw Amsterdam tragically died in a jet ski accident at Half Moon Cay, Bahamas, on March 22, 2025. The incident occurred during a shore excursion from the cruise ship, which had departed Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 16 with over 2,000 guests. Despite immediate medical assistance, the woman succumbed to injuries after losing control of the watercraft and colliding with a rock. This accident underscores the risks of recreational activities during port calls and raises questions about safety protocols for shore excursions.
Details of the Incident
The Nieuw Amsterdam was docked at Half Moon Cay, HAL’s private Bahamian island, as part of its Caribbean itinerary when the accident occurred. The passenger, a 73-year-old British-Czech national, was participating in a jet ski excursion on March 22, 2025. According to reports, she lost control of the watercraft during the activity, leading to a collision with a rocky shoreline. First responders provided urgent medical care, but she was pronounced dead at the scene by a local doctor.
Bahamian authorities launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident, including potential factors such as equipment malfunction, operator error, or environmental conditions. HAL has pledged full cooperation with the inquiry and is assisting the victim’s family with logistical and emotional support.
The incident delayed the Nieuw Amsterdam’s return to Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale. Embarkation for the next scheduled cruise was postponed to 4:30 p.m. on March 23, with departure rescheduled for 8:00 p.m.
Response and Impact
Holland America Line issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the family and reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety. The company emphasized that shore excursions are operated by third-party vendors who adhere to strict safety guidelines, though the incident has sparked scrutiny of these protocols.
The accident has reignited debates about the risks of high-speed watercraft activities and the adequacy of safety measures at private cruise destinations. Advocacy groups are calling for enhanced oversight, including mandatory safety briefings, age restrictions for certain activities, and improved coordination between cruise lines and excursion providers.
Key Takeaways:
- A 73-year-old British-Czech passenger died in a jet ski accident at Half Moon Cay, Bahamas, on March 22, 2025, during a shore excursion from *Nieuw Amsterdam*.
- Bahamian authorities are investigating the cause, while HAL provides support to the victim’s family and cooperates with the inquiry.
- The accident delayed the ship’s return to Port Everglades, causing embarkation for the next cruise to start at 4:30 p.m. on March 23.
- This incident highlights the inherent risks of water-based excursions and calls for stricter safety protocols and vendor oversight.
- Half Moon Cay remains operational, but the tragedy may prompt reviews of recreational activity guidelines at private cruise destinations.