Royal Caribbean settles lawsuit over passenger death

Royal Caribbean has reached a settlement with the family of Michael Virgil, a passenger who died aboard the Navigator of the Seas in December 2024. The settlement resolves a civil lawsuit brought by Virgil’s family, which included his minor son, though the specific financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

The lawsuit alleged that crew members served Virgil at least 33 alcoholic drinks over several hours despite visible signs of intoxication. The family claimed that when Virgil’s behavior escalated, crew members used excessive force to restrain him, leading to his death. The settlement was approved by a court, which noted the arrangement was in the best interest of the minor child, but the agreement does not establish legal liability on the part of the cruise line.