Maritime News

Woman Killed, Daughter Injured in Cruise Ship Related Tragedy

Posted on Dec 23, 2011

On November 15, 2011, Bernice Kraftcheck, 60, was killed when her Celebrity Cruise Line parasailing adventure ended in a fall in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Her daughter, Danielle Haese, 34, was hospitalized with serious injuries after the incident.

Following the deadly accident, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines suspended all of their parasailing activities. In addition, Carnival has stopped offering its St. Thomas parasailing option.

The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating to determine what caused the women to fall and if negligence played a part. The FBI also responded because it was unclear whether crime was involved.

The women were embarking on a seven-night cruise ship trip to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. Maarten onboard the Celebrity Eclipse. No cause of death has yet been determined.

Wind gusts and squalls were present when the accident occurred, which may have been a factor. If it turns out that negligence was either a contributing or main factor in the tragedy, then legal recourse will be available, but no determinations have been made at this time.

The Young Firm in New Orleans extends sympathy to the family and friends of the victims.