Florida Resident Sues Classica Cruise Operator After Slip and Fall on Dangerous Pool Step Aboard Margaritaville at Sea Islander
Kelsey Cugino, a resident of Florida, has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit against Classica Cruise Operator Ltd. Inc. in the Southern District of Florida . The complaint, filed under Case No. 9:25-cv-81579-AMC, alleges that Cugino suffered severe and permanent injuries after slipping on an unsafe swimming pool step while sailing aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander on April 16, 2025 .
Cruise Passenger Injured on Margaritaville at Sea Islander Due to Worn Friction Strips and Loose Pool Step
According to the legal filing, the incident occurred while the vessel was navigating international waters during a five-night Caribbean cruise that departed from Port Tampa Bay . Cugino was attempting to enter one of the ship’s swimming pools when he encountered a step that was described as being as slippery as ice . The lawsuit asserts that the hazard was compounded by the fact that the step was loose and wobbly, creating an unstable surface for passengers . Upon closer inspection following the fall, the plaintiff observed that the anti-slip friction strip on the step was extremely worn down and provided no traction . The complaint alleges that the deterioration was so significant that it must have occurred over a period of weeks or months rather than days, making the dangerous condition obvious to ship personnel .
Classica Cruise Operator Accused of Having Constructive Knowledge of Dilapidated Flooring Conditions
The lawsuit contends that the cruise line had both actual and constructive notice of the dangerous step . To establish notice, the plaintiff’s counsel points to the fact that the cruise line had previously installed one-inch-wide friction strips across the steps in an attempt to alleviate slipping hazards, which serves as evidence that the company recognized the steps were potentially dangerous . The complaint further argues that because the friction material had worn down to an almost invisible state over a prolonged period, the defendant should have discovered and repaired the defect through the exercise of reasonable care . By failing to replace the missing friction material or secure the loose step, the cruise line allegedly breached its duty of reasonable care owed to its passengers .
Florida Passenger Suffers Severe Leg Injuries and Permanent Disfigurement Following Cruise Ship Pool Accident
As a direct result of the slip and fall, Cugino suffered major physical trauma, specifically identified as severe tears in the ligaments and tendons of his right leg . The injury was significant enough to require surgical intervention by an orthopedic surgeon and has been followed by a long and difficult rehabilitation process . The lawsuit seeks damages for a wide range of losses, including physical impairment, permanent scarring, mental anguish, and the loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life . Furthermore, the plaintiff claims that these injuries are permanent or continuing in nature, necessitating ongoing medical and nursing care into the future . The legal action demands a judgment for money damages and costs to compensate for these extensive medical expenses and personal losses .
Plaintiff Requests Jury Trial in Admiralty Action Based on Cruise Ticket Contract Stipulations
While traditional maritime law often precludes jury trials in admiralty cases, the plaintiff has formally requested a trial by jury in this matter . The complaint notes that while the defendant’s ticket contract forces passengers into a specific federal forum, the contract also includes an explicit clause where the carrier consents to a trial by jury pursuant to federal procedural rules . The plaintiff argues that this consent should be honored by the court to ensure the verdict has the same effect as a jury trial granted as a matter of right . This procedural move aims to protect the passenger’s preference for a jury’s determination on the facts of the negligence claim against Classica Cruise Operator .
Contact a Cruise Ship Pool Slip and Fall Lawyer Today if You Were Injured Due to Unsafe Vessel Maintenance
Cruise ship passengers who suffer injuries due to poorly maintained flooring, worn anti-slip surfaces, or loose fixtures may be entitled to significant compensation under maritime law. Cruise operators have a strict legal responsibility to maintain their vessels in a reasonably safe condition and to warn passengers of hidden dangers that are not open and obvious. If you or a loved one experienced a serious injury while vacationing at sea, it is essential to consult with legal professionals who understand the complexities of maritime jurisdiction. Contact our team of dedicated cruise ship injury attorneys today to discuss your case and learn more about your rights.
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Disclaimer: Our firm does not represent the plaintiff in this case and is not involved in the litigation. The information provided is a summary of allegations based on publicly available court filings. We make no representations about the truth of these allegations, are not commenting on the merits of the case, and are not predicting any outcome.
