Hundreds of Royal Caribbean Passengers Secretly Filmed by Worker

A former Royal Caribbean cabin steward, convicted of exploiting his position to secretly film passengers in private spaces, is now at the center of a shocking new lawsuit.

Attorneys representing victims allege that Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison last August, may have violated the privacy of hundreds of guests, including young children, aboard the Symphony of the Seas.

The disturbing case came to light in February 2023 when a young passenger discovered a hidden camera beneath the sink in her cabin bathroom. The cruise, which had set sail from Florida, quickly became a crime scene.

Upon docking, Mirasol was arrested, and a search of his devices revealed an appalling collection of footage, including videos of minors as young as two years old.

Federal investigators reported that Mirasol admitted to using covert methods to spy on passengers, including hiding under beds to record children undressing or using the bathroom.

“What’s truly horrifying is the scale of this invasion,” said Sarah Lopez, an attorney representing families in the lawsuit. “We have reason to believe that up to 1,000 individuals—adults and children alike—were unknowingly recorded during their most private moments.”

The class action suit also alleges that some of the footage was leaked online, amplifying the trauma experienced by the victims.

While Mirasol’s actions are unquestionably criminal, the lawsuit raises questions about Royal Caribbean’s responsibility. “How did someone like this gain access to such vulnerable spaces without raising alarms?” asked Mark Daniels, a former cruise security consultant. “There’s a systemic failure here that needs to be addressed.”

So far, Royal Caribbean has not responded to requests for comment. However, the company previously stated it would cooperate fully with authorities during Mirasol’s initial arrest.

This case highlights a growing concern in the travel industry regarding hidden cameras and privacy violations. According to a 2024 report by the International Travel Security Association, complaints of hidden recording devices in accommodations have increased by 27% over the past five years.

“I trusted this cruise line with my family’s safety,” said one mother whose child was among those recorded. “That trust is shattered. We’ll never set foot on a ship again.”

For many victims, the legal battle is about more than compensation. It’s about holding corporations accountable and ensuring stricter safeguards for future passengers.

As the lawsuit unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder that even in idyllic vacation settings, vigilance is essential.