A lawsuit has been filed against Royal Caribbean International following a serious injury aboard Adventure of the Seas involving the ship’s FlowRider surf simulator.
The case centers around an incident in which a guest alleges he was severely injured while attempting to use the popular onboard attraction.
The FlowRider, featured on several Royal Caribbean ships, creates a stationary wave using powerful jets of water, allowing guests to simulate surfing or bodyboarding in a controlled environment.
Details From the Lawsuit
According to court filings, the passenger — identified as Jason Keller, a resident of Pennsylvania — claims the incident resulted in significant physical trauma.
In the claim, Keller states that he “violently fell, headfirst, and thereby fractured his neck and sustained other injuries,” while attempting to surf on the FlowRider. The filing further alleges that he “suffered multiple strokes as a result of his broken neck and suffers from left side weakness.”
Keller contends that although he received immediate medical attention on board, shipboard doctors misdiagnosed the severity of his neck injury. He claims that without appropriate treatment, his condition deteriorated.
The lawsuit alleges that the FlowRider installed on Adventure of the Seas may differ from newer versions of the attraction found on other vessels and suggests that design and safety considerations played a role in the incident.
The complaint further argues that the cruise line failed to ensure the attraction was reasonably safe for guests.
Long-Term Impact and Damages Sought
A resident of Pennsylvania, Keller says the incident has left him with lasting physical and psychological effects, as well as significant financial losses. The suit seeks compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
As of now, Royal Caribbean has not publicly addressed the specific allegations in detail. Like many high-thrill cruise ship activities, the FlowRider requires guests to sign a waiver acknowledging the inherent risks associated with participation.
Understanding the FlowRider Experience
The FlowRider is widely recognized as one of Royal Caribbean’s signature attractions. Designed to offer guests an adrenaline-filled activity at sea, the simulator produces a continuous wave across a padded surface, allowing riders to attempt surfing maneuvers under staff supervision.
While many guests enjoy the experience without incident, surf simulators — whether at sea or on land — carry inherent risks. Falls can occur quickly, and the force of the moving water combined with rider momentum can increase the likelihood of injury, particularly for inexperienced participants.
A Broader Discussion About Cruise Ship Thrill Attractions
In recent years, cruise ships have evolved into floating resorts packed with high-adrenaline amenities — from surf simulators and rock-climbing walls to roller coasters and skydiving simulators. These features are a major draw for some families.
At the same time, incidents like this often prompt travelers to re-evaluate what they prioritize in a cruise vacation. For some guests, high-thrill attractions are a highlight. For others, entertainment, dining, destinations, and lower-impact activities are more important considerations.
Cruising remains statistically one of the safest forms of vacation travel. However, as onboard attractions become more ambitious, questions around safety protocols, equipment updates, and onboard medical response can become part of the broader industry conversation.
As this case moves through the legal system, additional details may emerge. For now, it serves as a reminder that while cruise ships offer exciting experiences, guests should carefully assess their comfort level and understand the risks associated with high-intensity activities.
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 60 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 250,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.