Hannah Smith Sues Carnival Cruise After Losing Both Legs, June 06

Hannah Smith, a 23-year-old Miles College graduate, filed a lawsuit against Carnival Cruise Line and excursion operators after losing both legs in a propeller accident on May 12, 2025. Smith was celebrating her graduation during a Caribbean cruise when she was pulled into a spinning propeller while disembarking from a catamaran. The lawsuit alleges crew members overserved her alcohol and marijuana, then directed her into the water to use as a restroom. Smith underwent three successive amputations and more than 30 surgical procedures.

What Happened During the Excursion

Smith participated in the Pearl Island Beach Escape with Lunch excursion aboard the Carnival Celebration. According to the lawsuit, excursion employees overserved Smith alcohol and marijuana before passengers returned to Nassau. A crew member allegedly told Smith she could use the water near the vessel’s dive platform as a restroom. When Smith entered the water during disembarkation, she was pulled into the catamaran’s spinning propeller. She lost 60% of her blood and suffered catastrophic injuries to both legs.

Allegations Against the Cruise Line and Operators

The lawsuit claims excursion staff continuously supplied guests with alcohol throughout the day and encouraged marijuana use. One employee allegedly poured drinks directly into Smith’s mouth, while another encouraged her to smoke marijuana. The lawsuit also alleges the catamaran ferry was not properly docked or secured and that staff lacked necessary training. The captain allegedly engaged an idling engine while Smith remained in the water, causing the propeller to spin in reverse and strike her legs.

Medical Aftermath and Recovery Costs

Smith underwent two surgeries in the Bahamas before being flown to the United States for additional procedures. She ultimately underwent three successive amputations of her right leg, culminating in a hip disarticulation, a procedure involving removal of the entire leg and hip joint. Her attorneys claim Smith suffered physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, disability, disfigurement, and post-traumatic stress disorder. A GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly $80,000 for her recovery. Smith’s legal team is seeking a jury trial.

Legal Claims and Liability Questions

The lawsuit was filed in Miami against Carnival Cruise Line and two Bahamas excursion operators. Smith’s attorneys allege the crew members lured, coerced, and deceived Smith and her companions into accepting dangerous amounts of alcohol and marijuana. The case raises questions about cruise line responsibility for third-party excursion operators and duty of care toward intoxicated passengers. Cruise lines typically claim excursions are at passengers’ own risk, though the specific circumstances of crew conduct and vessel safety may affect liability.

Final Thoughts

Smith’s lawsuit seeks damages for life-altering injuries caused by alleged negligence and overservice of alcohol and drugs. The case will test whether cruise lines and excursion operators bear responsibility when crew members encourage dangerous behavior and fail to maintain safe vessel conditions.

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