The world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, has been making waves since its launch, but not just for its record-breaking size and luxurious amenities. A recent TikTok video has sent shockwaves through the cruising community, showing what appears to be bed bugs onboard the brand-new ship.
The viral post has left travelers both horrified and skeptical, igniting a heated discussion online about bed bugs onboard the world’s biggest cruise ship.
The TikTok that started it all
TikTok user @zacharmani posted a video showing what they claim to be bed bugs on Icon of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that debuted in 2024.
In the short clip, the user zooms in on what seems to be a small insect crawling on the ground near the cabin’s couch. The insect appears to be a bed bug, which the cruiser captured using a glass.
The video quickly gained traction in TikTok, amassing thousands of views and tons of comments, with many users expressing their fear of bringing bed bugs home from a cruise.
Viewers flooded the comment section under the video with reactions ranging from panic to humor. Below are some of the standout responses.
“A bed bug would have me with my life jacket on jumping fr” – Kelsey
“That is a new ship too.” – Pia Williams
“Nooooo not the $7K cruise.” – Tierra Triplett
“The way I would’ve been sleeping on the balcony 😂😂 as a nurse, bed bugs and C. diff are the only things that scare me!” – Royalnaeee
“I’ll leave everything on that boat when I get off. Refuse to bring them bugs home!” – Naturally_Golden74
One commenter even shared a legal horror story, stating: “A friend of mine sued and got $5,000 for bedbug bites… cruise to the Bahamas.”
How Icon of the Seas responded
The TikTok user shared a follow-up video about visiting the doctor onboard Icon of the Seas. Bed bugs can be a huge problem in tight living quarters, especially if they are uncontained. The bugs often bite at night to feed on blood, leaving people with swells in the morning.
In the video, @zacharmani shared he was only given Benadryl and hydrocortisone after confirming he had a bed bug bite at the medical clinic. In the comments, the user said he was not charged for the medications.
In a separate video, @zacharmani said they were able to switch cabins during their vacation due to the bed bugs.
Is this a real infestation?
While the video caused a stir, there is no official confirmation from Royal Caribbean regarding a widespread bed bug issue.
The cruise line has not commented publicly on the bed bug claims circulating online. Some travelers believe this is an isolated case on Icon of the Seas, while others are convinced that the issue could be more significant across Royal Caribbean’s fleet.
Historically, bed bugs have been an issue in hotels and other accommodations, but cruise ships are not immune. With thousands of passengers embarking and disembarking weekly, the risk of bed bugs being introduced is always present.
However, major cruise lines have strict protocols in place to handle infestations swiftly with cleaning procedures.
What to do if you encounter bed bugs on a cruise
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some steps to take:
- Report it immediately: Notify the cruise staff and request a room change.
- Take photos and videos: Document the evidence for potential compensation claims.
- Inspect your luggage: Before leaving the ship, check your belongings to avoid bringing unwanted pests home.
- Wash everything in hot water: Heat is the best way to kill bed bugs.
Should I be worried about bed bugs on a cruise ship?
While the TikTok video has caused understandable concern, it’s important to stay informed and not panic.
Bed bugs can happen anywhere, even in five-star resorts. The best way to protect yourself is to stay vigilant, inspect your surroundings, and report any suspicious findings.
As of now, Royal Caribbean has not issued a statement regarding the alleged bed bug sighting, leaving passengers to wonder whether this is a one-off incident or something more serious.
