Cruise passengers startled by emergency announcement in the middle of the night as captain passed away during 19-day voyage

It wasn’t until later that guests discovered the emergency involved the man steering their ship.

A letter, also shared with passengers, delivered the tragic confirmation: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Captain Michele Bartolomei, who died on board Diamond Princess earlier of a sudden medical emergency.”

“Our hearts are with Captain Bartolomei’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” the letter continued, describing him as a “respected leader” with “decades of service at sea.”

In tragic maritime events like this, cruise liability insurance and death benefits under international maritime law can become relevant for family support and legal assessment.

A Veteran of the Ocean. According to his LinkedIn profile, per News.com.au, Bartolomei had been with Princess Cruises since August 1995.

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