Studio B Slip-and-Fall Prompts Lawsuit Against Royal Caribbean Over Injuries During Cruise Ship Game
Oxendine alleges she slipped on a wet, foreign, and transitory substance on the floor of Studio B, which she claims was not visible due to dim lighting and insufficient warning. At the time, she was participating in a group activity supervised by Royal Caribbean staff.
She suffered a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL) and dislocated patella, and claims long-term disability, pain, loss of income, and reduced quality of life. The complaint demands damages exceeding $75,000.
Plaintiff Alleges Wet, Dimly Lit Floor Caused Serious Knee Injuries During Scavenger Hunt on Wonder of the Seas
Case Name: Heather Oxendine v. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
Case Number: 1:25-cv-21763-DPG
Jurisdiction: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida, Miami Division
Filing Date: April 17, 2025
Plaintiff: Heather Oxendine, North Carolina resident
Defendant: Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Liberian corporation with principal place of business in Florida
Vessel: Wonder of the Seas
Incident Date: March 15, 2024
Location: Studio B, Deck 3, during a scheduled “Quest Scavenger Hunt” activity
Legal Analysis & Implications
Four Negligence Counts Filed
- Negligent Maintenance
- Failure to inspect, clean, or cordon off hazardous areas
- History of Studio B becoming wet due to drink spills or event setup
- Negligent Failure to Warn
- No signs, lighting, or announcements warning passengers of slippery conditions
- Studio B’s role as an ice rink and multi-use venue made risk foreseeable
- Negligent Failure to Correct (Vicarious Liability)
- Crew failed to identify and correct the hazard before the activity
- No staff intervention despite evidence of prior similar incidents
- Negligent Failure to Warn (Vicarious Liability)
- Crew knew or should have known about the hazard but failed to warn participants
Oxendine points to prior federal lawsuits involving slip-and-fall incidents in Studio B aboard similar Royal Caribbean vessels:
- Billie v. RCCL (Laser tag on Freedom of the Seas)
- Velez v. RCCL (Same venue, same hazard)
- Zieman v. RCCL (Similar group activity in Studio B)
These cases suggest a pattern of constructive knowledge, bolstering her claim that Royal Caribbean failed to take adequate safety precautions despite prior notice.
Trend & Policy Analysis
Recurring Hazards in Multipurpose Ship Venues
Studio B—a space used for ice skating, group games, and laser tag—has emerged as a focal point in cruise injury litigation. Key issues:
- Floor transitions between ice and dry activities
- Dim lighting during group events
- Drink spillage and inadequate floor traction
This case reflects a broader legal trend: cruise lines are being challenged not just for failing to clean spills, but for structurally unsafe venue design and insufficient staff oversight during high-energy events.
If Oxendine prevails, cruise operators may be pressured to:
- Increase crew supervision during passenger activities
- Use slip-resistant flooring or frequent mop patrols
- Limit crowd size in venues with dual-purpose usage
Contact Us Today
If you’ve suffered a slip, fall, or injury aboard a cruise ship—especially during organized events or in high-traffic venues like theaters and game spaces—you may be entitled to compensation.
Cruise lines have a legal duty to maintain safe spaces and protect passengers from hidden hazards. Speak to a maritime injury attorney today to learn your rights. Most cruise tickets limit the time you have to take legal action—don’t wait.
