Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas came to a full stop in the western Caribbean on February 15, 2026 after encountering a small vessel in distress with six people onboard.
According to posts shared on social media, the ship halted its current sailing to aid in the rescue of a distressed vessel. One guest, Mike Hoglander, shared photos on Facebook and spoke exclusively with Candid Cruise & Travel about the rescue operation as it was happening on board.
Hoglander shared, “We are at a full stop pending rescue of 6 people,” alongside a photo showing a tiny, makeshift boat floating in open water.
The photos and videos included below were provided to Candid Cruise & Travel and are published with Hoglander’s permission. Another passenger, Laura Burchfield, also shared her photos to be posted in this article.
Hoglander said the captain made an announcement addressing the situation, stating that the individuals aboard the distressed vessel were Cuban refugees. He continued, “Right now, they are taking two at a time. We are taking them to the next port.”
At the time of publication, CruiseMapper data shows Radiance of the Seas stationary off the western tip of Cuba near Maria la Gorda. The vessel is currently sailing a six-night round-trip Western Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale that departed on February 14.
Radiance of the Seas’ speed is currently listed as not available, reflecting its stopped position during the rescue effort.
The vessel’s current itinerary includes ports of call in Grand Cayman on February 16 and Cozumel on February 18 before returning to Fort Lauderdale on February 20.
It is not uncommon for cruise ships to assist vessels in distress. Under international maritime law, ships at sea are obligated to render aid to those in danger when it is safe to do so.
Large cruise ships are often well equipped to provide immediate assistance, medical care, food, and shelter until authorities can assume responsibility.
Photos shared by Hoglander show the six individuals crowded into a small, open craft drifting in open waters. The ship’s crew appears to be coordinating the rescue from a safe distance as they carefully bring the individuals on board Radiance of the Seas.
Depending on the duration of the rescue operation and coordination with maritime authorities, minor itinerary adjustments are possible.
However, cruise lines routinely prioritize safety and humanitarian obligations over schedule. Royal Caribbean has not yet issued a formal public statement regarding the incident.
About Radiance of the Seas
Radiance of the Seas entered service in 2001 and is the flagship vessel of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class, a class of ships known for their extensive use of glass and panoramic ocean views.
Measuring 961 feet long and approximately 90,000 gross tons, the ship carries about 2,546 guests at double occupancy and just over 850 crew members.
Unlike some of Royal Caribbean’s newer mega ships, Radiance of the Seas offers a more traditional cruise experience with a focus on scenic itineraries and comfortable onboard spaces.
The ship features a nine-story central atrium with glass elevators facing the sea, floor-to-ceiling windows throughout public areas, and expansive outdoor decks designed for sightseeing. Currently, Radiance of the Seas sails from Tampa, Florida to the Western Caribbean.
