Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Diamond-Princess

On May 19, 2025, the maritime community mourns the sudden passing of Captain Michele Bartolomei, 52, who tragically died while onboard the 'Diamond Princess.' This unexpected medical emergency occurred as the cruise ship was navigating through waters near Taipei. Following the incident, Captain Salvatore Macera assumed command of the vessel. Passengers aboard the ship were abruptly awakened at 2 a.m. due to an urgent announcement calling for the onboard medical response team to attend to the medical center located on Deck 4. The 'Diamond Princess' was in the midst of an extensive 19-day Southern Islands Explorer journey, having set sail from Yokohama on May 16, with planned stops that included Ishigaki and Naha, before making an extended overnight stop in Keelung, Taiwan. The ship was docked at Keelung at the time of Captain Bartolomei's untimely death. He was just weeks away from celebrating his 30-year tenure with the cruise company, which began in August 1995. The announcement about the captain's death reverberated through the ship, leaving both passengers and crew members in shocked silence. Following the current itinerary, the 'Diamond Princess' is expected to return to Yokohama on May 25, where it will continue with a ten-night circumnavigation cruise of Japan. For more information, visit: http://crew-center.com/captain-michele-bartolomei-dies-aboard-diamond-princess

On January 30, 2025, urgent medical assistance was required when a crew member aboard the 'Diamond Princess' sustained a serious eye injury while the vessel was making its way from Brisbane to Auckland. The incident unfolded approximately 37 kilometers east of Matauri Bay. Quick-thinking crew members facilitated a helicopter medevac in optimal conditions, with favorable weather and daylight aiding the smooth execution of the operation. The injured crew member was successfully hoisted from the Northland coast and transported safely to shore, where they received advanced medical treatment. For further details and to view the dramatic rescue, visit the New Zealand Herald's report.

In a heartbreaking accident on May 5, 2023, a port pilot lost his life in Nagasaki when he fell into the water while boarding the cruise ship 'Diamond Princess' at approximately 05:30 a.m. The 69-year-old pilot was promptly rescued by a vessel from the cruise ship; however, despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead two hours later. Following the tragedy, the 'Diamond Princess' continued its journey, departing from Nagasaki and setting course for Yokohama later that same day.