Passenger Crimes (sexual) on Harmony Of The Seas on 6th May 2023

On 6 May 2023, the FBI arrested a male passenger aboard the Harmony of the Seas after the vessel docked in PortMiami, Florida. The individual had installed a concealed Wi-Fi camera in a public restroom located between the FlowRider and the Wipe Out Bar on Deck 16 (aft). The device recorded for approximately 24 hours before being discovered by another passenger on 1 May, who alerted crew. Ship security recovered the camera and found an SD memory card containing several hours of video footage.

The suspect was charged with video voyeurism and attempted possession of child exploitation material. Court documents indicate the recordings captured more than 150 individuals, including at least 40 minors and young children (ages 4–5), in various states of undress. The FBI and Royal Caribbean's security team are investigating the full scope of the incident.

The concealed camera was discovered on 1 May 2023 by a passenger using the public restroom between the FlowRider and Wipe Out Bar on Deck 16 (aft). After alerting crew, ship security investigated and located the Wi-Fi-enabled device. The SD/memory card contained video files showing the suspect installing the camera, adjusting its angle to focus on the toilet, and remotely connecting to it via iPhone. The recordings documented individuals entering the lavatory to use the restroom or change into/out of swimwear, capturing nude genitalia, buttocks, and breasts in various states of clothing. When interviewed by ship security on 2 May, the man confessed to positioning the camera for recording purposes.

Passengers

• Approximately 6,555 onboard during the 7-day voyage.

Crew

• Crew complement not specified in source.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• Not applicable to this incident.

The suspect was detained by the FBI upon the vessel's arrival in PortMiami on 6 May 2023. He was charged with video voyeurism and attempted possession of child exploitation material based on court documents from Miami. The recordings included more than 150 individuals, with at least 40 minors and young children (ages 4–5) documented in the footage. The suspect did not submit a plea at the time of arrest. On 8 May 2023, he was released on a $25,000 unsecured surety bond pending trial, subject to electronic monitoring (home detention), denial of internet access (at home and work), and prohibition from unsupervised contact with any juveniles under 18, including his own two children. His passport was confiscated, and travel was restricted to Florida and Puerto Rico only.

The investigation remains ongoing. The suspect is in custody pending trial. Royal Caribbean and the FBI continue to work with affected passengers and their families. The incident has prompted renewed focus on shipboard security protocols and surveillance in public areas.