Quantum of the Seas Medevacs 2025: Two Medical Evacuations in New Caledonia Highlight Cruise Safety Protocols

In February 2025, Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas conducted two medical evacuations in New Caledonian waters during an 8-day South Pacific cruise. Three Australian passengers required urgent medical care and were safely transferred to Medipole hospital in Noumea with assistance from the Armed Forces of New Caledonia. All patients were successfully evacuated and received specialist treatment ashore with no fatalities reported.

The incidents occurred on 18–19 February 2025 as the vessel approached Noumea. The Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centre (COSS) coordinated the response, working closely with the ship's medical team and maritime gendarmerie patrol boat to ensure swift and safe transfers.

The first medical emergency was declared on the evening of 18 February 2025 as Quantum of the Seas approached Noumea. By 8:00 a.m. on 19 February, a maritime gendarmerie patrol boat had completed the transfer of the first patient to shore. The individual was transported directly to Medipole, a specialized medical facility equipped to handle emergencies. Shortly after the ship prepared to depart New Caledonia's lagoon, a second emergency was declared involving two additional passengers. The maritime pilot notified COSS, which arranged a remote medical consultation to assess severity. The patrol boat was redeployed and by 10:30 a.m. both passengers had been safely transferred to Medipole for further treatment. Throughout both evacuations, Quantum of the Seas maintained continuous communication with local authorities and medical teams.

Passengers

• Three Australian passengers required medical evacuation during the voyage.

Crew

• Onboard medical staff and crew played a vital role in stabilizing patients before transfer and coordinating with local authorities.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• Three passengers required urgent medical care; specific medical conditions not disclosed.

Rescued

• All three patients were safely evacuated and transferred to Medipole hospital in Noumea for specialist treatment.

The Armed Forces of New Caledonia and its maritime gendarmerie patrol boat responded swiftly to both emergencies. The Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centre (COSS) coordinated the response, including remote medical consultations to assess patient severity. Royal Caribbean International praised the coordinated efforts of local authorities, the onboard medical team, and crew members in executing the evacuations efficiently. The ship maintained communication with medical teams throughout both transfers to ensure seamless coordination.

Following completion of both evacuations, Quantum of the Seas resumed its scheduled 8-day South Pacific itinerary without significant delays. The majority of passengers continued their voyage without disruption. Royal Caribbean reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and the maintenance of high standards of onboard medical care.