A Royal Caribbean cruise ship played a critical role in a recent migration incident near Cuban waters, rescuing six individuals found adrift on a small vessel in the western Caribbean.
The incident unfolded on Sunday, February 15, 2026, when the Radiance of the Seas halted its journey off the Cuban coast after spotting a boat in distress, as reported by the specialized publication, Royal Caribbean Blog.
Passenger posts on social media detailed the cruise's complete standstill while the rescue operation was organized. "We are at a complete stop awaiting the rescue of six people," shared Mike Hoglander in a Crown and Anchor Society travel group on Facebook.
Another traveler recounted on Reddit that the captain noticed the troubled boat and was compelled to stop, adhering to international laws that mandate maritime assistance to those in peril.
While the arrival of the Coast Guard was anticipated, passengers noted that the Coast Guard could not respond, leading the crew to conduct the rescue themselves. "The ship stopped around 4:45 p.m. (...) but I don't think the Coast Guard could come, so around 5:45-6 they decided to go get them," the user explained.
According to the Royal Caribbean Blog, the small vessel was taking on water, and the six individuals were successfully brought aboard the cruise ship.
Cayman Islands Confirm Cuban Nationality
The situation didn't remain confined to social media. On Monday, Cayman News Service (CNS) confirmed that the six rescued individuals were adult Cuban men, who were disembarked in the Cayman Islands and placed under the supervision of the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control (CBC).
CNS reported that the Cubans are being processed in accordance with the territory's immigration laws and international obligations.
This development comes amid rising migration tensions in the region. The Caymanian outlet noted that authorities are bracing for a potential surge of irregular migrants from Cuba, as repatriations persist.
CNS also noted that nine Cubans were sent back to Havana on Friday, February 13, raising the total number of migrants returned since the start of 2026 to 13, with an additional 23 still in custody.
Meanwhile, the Radiance of the Seas resumed its planned itinerary, arriving at Grand Cayman on Monday, February 16, as scheduled, during a six-night cruise that embarked from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on February 14.
Key Details on the Rescue of Cuban Rafters
Why did the Radiance of the Seas stop near Cuba?
The cruise ship halted its journey after spotting a small vessel in distress, as per international maritime laws requiring ships to aid those in danger at sea.
What happened to the rescued Cuban rafters?
The six Cuban men were brought aboard the cruise ship and later disembarked in the Cayman Islands, where they are being processed under local immigration laws.
How is the Cayman Islands responding to migrant arrivals?
Authorities are preparing for a possible increase in irregular migrants from Cuba, while continuing to conduct repatriations.