Royal Caribbean Faces Lawsuit Over Severe FlowRider Injury
A passenger is suing Royal Caribbean after suffering a fractured neck on the FlowRider surf simulator, alleging negligence and misdiagnosis.
A recent lawsuit has been filed against Royal Caribbean by a former passenger who sustained a fractured neck while using the cruise line's FlowRider surf simulator. The incident occurred on the Adventure of the Seas in February 2025, with the passenger alleging negligence by the cruise line and its onboard medical team for misdiagnosing the severity of his injury.
Key Takeaways
- A passenger suffered a fractured neck and other injuries after falling on the FlowRider.
- The lawsuit claims Royal Caribbean was negligent and failed to address safety issues with the attraction.
- The passenger alleges the onboard medical team misdiagnosed his injury, worsening his condition.
- The suit highlights concerns about the FlowRider's design and the lack of updated safety features.
The Incident and Allegations
Jason Keller, a Pennsylvania resident, was reportedly using the FlowRider surf simulator on February 3, 2025, when he "violently fell, headfirst," resulting in a fractured neck and subsequent strokes, leading to left-side weakness. The lawsuit, filed on February 9, 2026, contends that Royal Caribbean was negligent in its operation and maintenance of the attraction. Keller claims that the cruise line's medical staff misdiagnosed his severe neck injury as less serious, preventing proper and timely treatment.
As a result of his injuries, Keller is seeking compensation for physical and mental suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, and lost income.
Concerns About the FlowRider Attraction
The lawsuit further alleges that the FlowRider attraction on the Adventure of the Seas may be inherently more dangerous due to modifications. According to the claim, the attraction was shortened to better fit the ship's layout. Additionally, the suit points out that while the FlowRider brand has begun incorporating "pillow padding" in recovery zones to prevent injuries, Royal Caribbean has not yet adopted this safety enhancement.
Assumption of Risk and Waivers
Royal Caribbean's FlowRider is described as a 40-foot-long attraction that simulates surfing with 30,000 gallons of water rushing at guests. The cruise line acknowledges the inherent risks associated with such activities, stating on its website that "Riding on the FlowRider® is an extreme sport and high-risk recreational activity." The cruise line's terms also warn of potential injuries, including serious harm to the head, neck, back, and limbs, and even paralysis or death. Participants are typically required to sign a waiver acknowledging these risks and adhere to height restrictions.
Neither Royal Caribbean nor Keller's attorney have publicly commented on the ongoing lawsuit.