Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a 60-year-old man who tragically lost his life following an altercation aboard the luxury cruise liner MSC Virtuosa.
The incident took place around 8:30pm on Saturday, May 3, during the ship’s voyage to Bruges, Belgium. Upon its return to Southampton on Monday morning, a 57-year-old man from Exeter, also a passenger, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Hampshire Constabulary confirmed that the victim’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
“A Very Sad Outcome” – Tributes from the Public
The shocking news has prompted an outpouring of sympathy online.
Beverly Jane shared:
Very sad outcome for the family who have lost a son, brother, husband. Don’t know what the true story was about, but someone has lost their life.
Denise Juniper added her condolences:
So sorry for the family and friends.”
Meanwhile, passengers who were onboard during the tragedy expressed their sorrow while praising the ship’s handling of the situation.
Paul Ashley, who was aboard the Virtuosa, said:
I was on the ship and had a great time. I saw no trouble at all. This was my fifth time on the ship. This could have happened on any ship. Thoughts are with the family.”
Christian Lawton, another passenger, commented:
I was on the ship when this happened with my family… my three children, 10 and under, never felt intimidated or scared. It’s a horrible incident, however, an incident that unfortunately happens in every town centre every week. The ship’s amazing and dealt with the situation as professionally as they could.
About the MSC Virtuosa
The MSC Virtuosa is one of the world’s largest and most luxurious cruise ships. Operated by MSC Cruises, a Swiss-based company, the vessel measures 331 metres long, boasts 16 decks, and can carry up to 6,334 passengers and crew.
The ship is also the set for the popular Channel 5 crime drama “The Good Ship Murder”, starring Shayne Ward and Catherine Tyldesley, with its third season reportedly filming aboard the vessel.
Tragically, this is not the first incident linked to the ship. In October 2024, a Colombian woman aboard the MSC Virtuosa died after going overboard near the Channel Islands.
Ongoing Investigation
Police enquiries into Saturday’s incident are ongoing. Authorities have urged witnesses to come forward with any information to assist the investigation.
MSC Cruises has yet to release a full statement but is believed to be cooperating fully with police.
