California Passenger Sues Norwegian Cruise Line Over Trip and Fall on Unmarked Stage Lip in Observation Lounge of Norwegian Bliss
A California resident has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., alleging severe injuries from a trip and fall over a concealed step in the Observation Lounge on Deck 15 of the Norwegian Bliss. The complaint, filed May 15, 2025, is styled Bustillos v. NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., Case No. 1:25-cv-22231-BB.
Hidden Platform Lip in Observation Lounge Creates Serious Hazard for Elderly Passenger
According to the complaint, the incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. on June 20, 2024, while the 83-year-old plaintiff was navigating the Observation Lounge to reach the restroom. The lounge, designed with dark winding walkways, glass partitions, and multiple seating areas, featured a platform/stage with a piano for live performances. At the time of the incident, the platform was not barricaded or marked to indicate it was off-limits, and there were no visible warnings or indicators alerting guests to a change in elevation.
As the plaintiff walked across what appeared to be a continuous, passenger-accessible pathway, she unknowingly stepped onto the dark-colored stage area. The lip or border of the raised platform was camouflaged by being the same color as the flooring, rendering it nearly invisible. As a result, the plaintiff tripped over the unmarked edge, fell, and suffered a fractured pelvis requiring significant medical intervention.
Lawsuit Details Alleged Negligence in Design, Inspection, and Passenger Protection
The complaint asserts that Norwegian Cruise Line, through its design, construction, and ongoing vessel management, created an unreasonably dangerous condition for passengers—particularly elderly guests or those with mobility or vision challenges. Specific allegations include:
- Designing and approving a public area with concealed, hard-to-see elevation changes and failing to ensure changes in elevation were properly marked or highlighted;
- Failing to block access to the stage area when not in use, or to post warning signs to deter passenger entry;
- Failing to routinely and effectively inspect and monitor the area for hazards;
- Neglecting to address known risks after prior similar incidents on its fleet, and failing to comply with industry safety codes and internal standards designed to prevent trip and fall accidents;
- Targeting its cruise services to older passengers while disregarding foreseeable hazards that are especially risky for this demographic.
Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that NCL required the ship to be custom built to its own specifications, including the selection and placement of flooring materials, partitions, and warning signs. The cruise line had full access and control during both initial construction and any retrofits or modifications, underscoring its responsibility for the safety of all public areas.
Pattern of Similar Incidents and Alleged Concealment
The complaint references multiple prior lawsuits involving similar trip-and-fall incidents on NCL vessels, such as hidden steps or poorly marked elevation changes in lounges and theaters. The plaintiff further alleges that NCL has engaged in confidential settlements to conceal the scope of these hazards from the public, limiting passengers’ ability to discover the existence of previous incidents.
Permanent Injuries and Losses
The plaintiff claims permanent or ongoing physical injuries, pain, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, lost wages and earning capacity, and substantial medical costs. The loss of the benefit of her vacation and associated travel expenses are also sought as damages.
Industry Implications: Cruise Ship Public Area Safety and Design for Older Passengers
This lawsuit shines a light on a growing issue in cruise ship safety—public area design flaws that endanger passengers, especially elderly guests, by creating camouflaged or poorly marked elevation changes. As cruise lines continue to attract older passengers, the outcome of this case may influence industry best practices regarding the design, inspection, and clear marking of walkways, platforms, and public spaces on modern vessels. Additionally, the suit raises questions about the need for greater transparency regarding prior incidents and proactive steps to address known hazards.
Injured by Hidden Hazards or Unsafe Design on a Cruise Ship?
If you or a loved one has been injured due to poorly marked or unsafe conditions aboard a cruise ship, you may be entitled to compensation under maritime law. Protect your rights—contact us today for a free consultation.
