On August 26, 2025, guests onboard the Disney Wish were startled when the ship’s man overboard alarm was triggered about an hour after leaving Nassau.
The ship slowed and turned, crew members threw life rings into the water, and rescue boats were launched. Passengers were asked to report to their muster stations for a full headcount.
By late evening, the Captain confirmed that everyone onboard was safe. The likely cause was a large piece of debris in the water that triggered the ship’s advanced detection system.
DCL not only handled the safety issue swiftly and effectively, but also offered a goodwill gesture — a $150 onboard credit for each stateroom to make up for the disruption.”
The Captain reportedly made this announcement on the Navigators App.
““A report of a possible man overboard last evening prompted immediate activation of safety protocols earlier this evening, including a full muster drill and deployment of rescue vessels. We’re pleased to report that all guests and crew are safe and accounted for. A large piece of debris found in the water is believed to be the source of the initial sighting.
We appreciate everyone’s calm cooperation in ensuring the safety of all onboard. We apologize for the inconvenience and disruption of last night’s activities. In appreciation of your patience, each stateroom will receive a $150 onboard credit.
Thank you and have a magical day in Castaway Cay.”
It is impressive, not only with how Disney handled the emergency situation, but also that they gave this onboard credit
Not every cruise line has a similar attitude to customer service. On my recent Royal Caribbean cruise there was no water on the entire ship for over two hours.
Even though it was a ship wide problem there was no announcement for a considerable time. Then when the water eventually came back on, it was a simple apology. No onboard credit for the disruption, and stress that caused.
One cruiser shared on Reddit:
“Captain made an announcement this morning confirming that everyone was safe. Said that it was most likely a large piece of debris in the water that was mistaken as a person.
As consolation for the interruption of the events last night, everyone was comped $150 to their accounts, so that’s a nice surprise. Just glad everyone’s safe!”
While this incident turned out to be a false alarm, it once again shows how quickly and effectively Disney Cruise Line crews respond when a potential emergency arises.
A Real Rescue on Disney Dream
Just weeks earlier, a real emergency occurred when a young girl fell overboard from Deck 4 of the Disney Dream on June 29, 2025. Her father immediately jumped in after her.
The emergency code “Mr. M.O.B. port side!” was called, and the Disney Dream crew launched a rapid rescue operation. Within about 30 minutes, both father and daughter were safely back on board — an incredible testament to the crew’s training and preparedness.
A Disney Cruise Line spokesperson said:
“The crew aboard the Disney Dream swiftly rescued two guests from the water. We commend our crew members for their exceptional skills and prompt actions, which ensured the safe return of both guests to the ship within minutes. We are committed to the safety and well-being of our guests, and this incident highlights the effectiveness of our safety protocols.”
You can read the full story here:
Disney Dream Crew Performs Miraculous Rescue After Child Falls Overboard
Disney Cruise Line’s Safety Commitment
These two very different events — a false alarm on Disney Wish and a successful rescue on Disney Dream — both highlight the same point: Disney Cruise Line takes safety extremely seriously.
Crew members train regularly for these situations, and the systems onboard are designed to detect and respond as quickly as possible.
Whether it’s a real emergency or a false alarm, guests can feel reassured that Disney’s teams are prepared to act immediately.
Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.