A recent incident aboard a cruise ship captured on video shows a passenger temporarily stuck inside a clear, double-looping water slide that extends over the ocean. The video, widely shared online, depicts the individual attempting to move forward while on their back in a transparent section of the slide.
The event occurred during a voyage, reportedly along the Canadian coast, and quickly gained significant attention on social media platforms. While the situation appeared unusual to viewers, cruise lines have safety protocols in place for such occurrences.
Key Takeaways
- A passenger was temporarily stuck in an ocean-facing cruise ship water slide.
- The incident, captured on TikTok, generated widespread social media discussion.
- The slide involved was likely an 'Ocean Loops' type on a Norwegian Cruise Line vessel.
- Cruise lines have safety systems to assist riders who do not complete the slide path.
- Riders are not in danger if they stop in the middle of the attraction.
Video Shows Passenger Immobilized in Slide
The 13-second video, posted by TikTok user @kaylamierzejewski on September 19, shows a woman in a clear section of the water slide. She is seen on her back, making efforts to inch forward. In the background, other people are heard laughing. One person states, "She’s literally stuck."
The video quickly went viral, attracting 7.3 million views and nearly 10,000 comments. The clip also used a popular jingle often associated with unique or unusual vacation settings on social media.
"I’m so claustrophobic this is my worst nightmare," one user, @Colleen2513, commented, highlighting a common reaction among viewers.
Another user, @Kristen_w17, added, "I had a panic attack just watching this." Many comments focused on the claustrophobic nature of the situation. Some users questioned why the passenger did not try to crawl out. "What am I missing? Can’t she roll over and start crawling?" asked @gizmo the samoyed.
Slide Specifications
- Height above ocean: Approximately 48.5 meters (159 feet)
- Extension from ship: Approximately 3.35 meters (11 feet)
- Minimum rider height: 1.22 meters (4 feet)
- Weight range: 54 kg to 136 kg (120 to 300 pounds)
Identifying the Cruise Ship and Slide Type
Although the video's original poster did not explicitly name the vessel, available information suggests the incident likely occurred on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. Specifically, it appears to be one of their Breakaway-class vessels, such as the Bliss, Encore, or Joy.
According to CruiseMapper, these ships were operating in waters off British Columbia, Canada, around the time the video was posted. They were conducting various seven- and nine-day voyages to Alaska and returning to Seattle.
Breakaway-Class Ships
Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway-class ships are known for their advanced amenities and entertainment options. Each of these vessels features two prominent water slides. One of these attractions is called the Ocean Loops, a distinctive double-loop water slide.
This particular slide is engineered to extend approximately 3.35 meters (11 feet) off the side of the ship. It is positioned about 48.5 meters (159 feet) above the ocean surface, offering a thrilling experience to passengers.
How Ocean Loops Slides Operate
Riders on the Ocean Loops slide typically begin by standing on a trap door. They lean back, crossing their arms over their chest and their legs. When the trap door is released, the rider is meant to gain enough momentum to travel through two full loops of the slide.
There are specific requirements for riders. Individuals must be at least 1.22 meters (4 feet) tall. Additionally, their weight must fall within a range of 54 kilograms (120 pounds) to 136 kilograms (300 pounds). These guidelines are in place to ensure both safety and proper ride function.
Safety Protocols for Stuck Riders
If a rider fails to complete either the first or second loop of the Ocean Loops slide, they are not in immediate danger. The slide system includes safety features designed to address such situations.
An alarm system notifies a ride attendant if a passenger does not finish the ride path. Upon receiving this alert, the attendant proceeds to a specific location on the stairs below the slide. There, they can open a hatch.
This hatch allows the rider to easily exit the slide. This system ensures that no one is truly 'stuck' or in a dangerous situation for an extended period. Attractions Magazine has previously published a YouTube video demonstrating multiple instances of riders experiencing this same issue on the Norwegian Encore, and their safe removal.
- Alarm system: Notifies staff if a rider stops.
- Attendant action: Opens a hatch to allow exit.
- No danger: Riders are safe and can easily self-extricate.
Public Reaction and Cruise Line Response
The viral video sparked discussions online about ride safety and personal comfort levels with such attractions. While many expressed fear of claustrophobia, others pointed out the built-in safety mechanisms.
TravModo has reached out to Norwegian Cruise Line to confirm the specific vessel involved and to gain further insight into their safety procedures for these unique water slides. The company's response is pending.
Incidents like this, though resolved safely, often draw significant public attention due to their unusual nature and the perception of being 'stuck' in a high-profile location. Cruise lines prioritize passenger safety, and attractions like the Ocean Loops are designed with multiple layers of redundancy and staff training to manage unexpected events.
