Carnival Cruise Line is facing a major legal challenge after a passenger filed a maritime injury lawsuit seeking more than $5 million in damages over alleged burn injuries sustained aboard the Carnival Magic.
The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of Florida in May 2026, claims the cruise operator failed to maintain safe deck conditions and did not warn passengers about dangerously high surface temperatures on the ship’s Lido Deck.
Passenger Claims Severe Burns On Pool Deck
According to court documents, Florida resident Jorge Luis Alverio Nunez alleges he suffered severe second-degree burns to his feet while walking barefoot across the Lido Deck during a May 2025 Caribbean sailing.
The incident reportedly occurred on 21 May 2025 as the passenger walked approximately twenty steps to retrieve shoes from a lounge chair.
Nunez claims the deck surface had become hot enough to cause tissue damage within seconds.
The lawsuit states that he required hospital treatment and continues to experience mobility issues and physical disfigurement linked to the injuries.
Lawsuit Alleges Negligence By Carnival Cruise Line
The complaint argues that Carnival Cruise Line failed to adequately monitor deck temperatures or implement sufficient safety measures despite the risk posed by intense Caribbean heat.
Nunez also alleges there were no visible warning signs or announcements alerting passengers to hazardous surface temperatures.
The lawsuit further claims Carnival should have taken preventive action, including cooling measures or restricting barefoot access during peak daytime temperatures.
Passenger Seeking More Than $5 Million
The plaintiff is seeking compensation exceeding $5 million for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and alleged permanent physical injuries.
Hospital documentation submitted as part of the case reportedly confirms second-degree burns and continuing medical treatment requirements.
The case remains active in federal maritime court, while Carnival Cruise Line has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Hot Deck Surfaces Under Legal Scrutiny
The lawsuit also references Carnival’s own passenger guidance recommending the use of protective footwear onboard.
The plaintiff argues this demonstrates the company’s awareness of potential risks associated with heated deck surfaces.
Caribbean temperatures during May regularly exceed 30°C (86°F), and dark outdoor surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become significantly hotter.
The case is expected to draw attention within the cruise industry as operators continue balancing passenger comfort, safety standards and liability concerns aboard large resort-style vessels.
