Passengers aboard a P&O Cruises Australia voyage were left horrified after crew members appeared in costumes resembling those of the Ku Klux Klan during a Christmas-themed event on the Pacific Explorer. The incident, which has been widely criticized, unfolded as the ship returned to Melbourne following an eight-day holiday trip to Hobart and the Bass Strait islands.
The Incident
During a “sports battle day” event on the ship’s Lido deck, several crew members from the housekeeping team dressed in white cloaks and pointed hats, sparking outrage among passengers. Witnesses reported that the outfits, which bore a striking resemblance to the notorious white-hooded attire of the Ku Klux Klan, caused an immediate stir.
Passenger Terri, who was traveling with her husband, described the atmosphere:
“There was a lot of excitement at first, but when the housekeeping team arrived dressed like that, everything went silent. People were in shock, and some were visibly upset.”
Terri captured photos and videos of the event, later sharing them on social media. She described the incident as a “staggering lapse in judgment” and said she was disappointed by the lack of a formal apology or explanation from the cruise’s senior staff.
P&O Cruises Response
In a statement, P&O Cruises Australia claimed the costumes were intended to represent “upside-down snow cones” and denied any malicious intent.
“We regret if a recent incident on a Pacific Explorer cruise offended any guests,” a spokesperson said. “The crew members, unaware of how their costumes could be misconstrued, were horrified and apologetic when they realized the distress caused. The costumes were promptly removed.”
The company added that the staff involved had no intention of causing harm and that the incident was a misunderstanding.
Passenger Reactions
Many passengers, however, found the explanation insufficient. One described the incident as “tone-deaf,” questioning how the design could have been approved for a public event. Others dubbed the trip the “KKK cruise,” criticizing the cruise line for failing to foresee the potential for offense.
Historical Context
The Ku Klux Klan, a white supremacist organization founded in the aftermath of the American Civil War, is notorious for its violent campaigns against African-Americans and other minorities. The imagery associated with the group remains a powerful symbol of racism and hatred.
Calls for Accountability
Passengers have urged P&O Cruises to implement stricter oversight on event planning and costume choices to avoid similar incidents in the future. The company has not confirmed if additional measures or apologies will be issued.
The controversy has sparked widespread debate online, with social media users expressing disbelief over the lack of foresight and sensitivity in planning the event.
