Not A Perfect Day As Fight Breaks Out On Cruise Private Island

CocoCay is meant to be the ultimate island escape—white sand, turquoise water, and a drink in hand. But for one group of cruisers in May 2025, “Chill Island” turned unexpectedly chaotic when a fight broke out in the water, right next to the over-the-water cabanas.

What should’ve been a relaxing day in paradise quickly spiralled into a full-blown spectacle involving punches, shouting, and a crowd of stunned onlookers.

What Actually Happened?

It all reportedly began when guests renting the high-end cabanas became increasingly vocal about others entering “their space.” Despite the ocean being, well, the ocean, the group seemed to believe their rental extended into the surrounding water. Lifeguards on duty asked floating guests to steer clear of the cabana zone, noting the current was gently pushing people in, but not everyone could control where they drifted.

One man, described as bald and calmly floating, ended up too close for the cabana group’s liking, and that’s when the shouting started.

Things escalated quickly. According to witnesses, one of the cabana guests yelled at the man to get out of the area, while a woman in the group reportedly shouted at the lifeguard to “do his job” when the man wasn’t removed. Then it turned physical—two men from the cabana zone allegedly waded into the water, pushed the man, and even attempted to drag him under.

In response, the man defended himself by throwing punches, leading to a full-blown altercation right there in the water, as stunned beachgoers looked on.

Crowd Sides with the Victim

As the fight played out, the mood on the beach shifted. Many onlookers quickly came to the defence of the man who was attacked, with some guests even stepping in to help break up the scuffle. One member of the cabana group reportedly threw the man’s hat at him while hurling insults, which only made matters worse.

Later, dozens of guests reported what they had seen to island security, describing the cabana group as aggressive, entitled, and clearly in the wrong. One witness said online: “EVERYONE on that beach had your back.”

Security Steps In

Island security didn’t waste time. Jet-ski lifeguards were dispatched to the scene, quickly separating those involved and restoring some calm. All parties were questioned on the beach, and while no one was immediately removed, the situation left many feeling uneasy.

Some guests were surprised and disappointed that the cabana group was allowed to remain on the island after their behaviour. Rumours began circulating that they might be escorted off the ship at the next port, though nothing has been officially confirmed.

May 24th Coco Cay fight (Oasis and Freedom OTS)
byu/tiedye_dreamer inroyalcaribbean

Entitlement or Just Bad Behaviour?

Online discussions quickly picked up steam, with many cruisers weighing in on what they saw as a glaring example of entitlement. The group in the cabanas had paid for a premium experience, but that didn’t mean they “owned” the surrounding sea.

One commenter put it bluntly: “Apparently that group didn’t understand that money can’t buy you class… or make you less of an a**hole.” The consensus? Premium perks don’t excuse poor behaviour.

Was Anyone Removed from the Cruise?

At the time of writing, there has been no official word on whether anyone was removed from the ship following the incident. Some witnesses claimed security suggested the aggressive guests would be dealt with later, possibly at the next port of call. Others expressed frustration that there didn’t appear to be immediate consequences.

For now, it seems the group was allowed to enjoy the rest of their beach day, much to the annoyance of those who had supported the man attacked.

The Bigger Picture: Respect Matters

Incidents like this serve as a reminder that cruise holidays are shared experiences. Whether you’re in a basic lounger or a luxury cabana, everyone deserves to feel safe and welcome. The ocean doesn’t come with property lines, and paying extra doesn’t give you the right to police other guests.

For most visitors, CocoCay remains a highlight of their trip. But this altercation left a sour note that many won’t forget any time soon.

Final Thought

“We had an amazing vacation and loved every moment of it, but this was truly a dagger in the side after a long day,” one guest wrote. And that pretty much sums it up. Even in paradise, it only takes a few bad apples to rattle the vibe, so here’s hoping the next Perfect Day stays a little more… chill.

You Might Also Like to Read