A terrifying moment unfolded on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas when a guest was “sliced open” by a break in the waterslide’s structure. The 46-foot-tall “Frightening Bolt” waterslide suffered a rupture in one of its acrylic panels while the passenger was riding, causing him injuries to his back and legs.
Witnesses shared videos showing a hole in the slide with water pouring out and heard frantic calls to stop the ride. Despite the break, the guest did not fall through the opening and was treated on board, with his condition reported as stable.
Royal Caribbean immediately closed the slide for the rest of the cruise while the damage is investigated. They have yet to announce when the slide may reopen and are exploring whether the failure resulted from a defect or impact.
Passengers noted tighter safety inspections across the ship in the days after. Royal Caribbean reiterated that their commitment to safety goes beyond public health guidelines to protect all aboard the vessel.
