To pay tribute to the memory of Captain James MacDonald, a revered and beloved figure in the cruise community, Royal Caribbean vessels lowered their flags to half-staff last Friday. Captain MacDonald tragically suffered a fatal heart attack while commanding Harmony of the Seas.
The Tragic Event involving Captain James MacDonald
During a 7-day voyage in the Western Caribbean, Captain MacDonald urgently needed medical assistance. Consequently, on April 30, the Oasis-class ship diverted from its course to Cozumel, Mexico, so that Captain MacDonald and his wife could disembark. Subsequently, he was transported to a hospital in Miami for further treatment.
Regrettably, on May 16, Captain MacDonald passed away. Royal Caribbean shared the news internally, praising his 34 years of service for his unwavering dedication, expertise, and loyalty.
“Throughout his tenure, he played a crucial role in mentoring thousands of crew members, including numerous sailing captains. He was instrumental in guiding our triumph in Texan cruise operations, where both crew and passengers will miss his presence,” the announcement stated.
The news disseminated swiftly among news outlets, acquaintances, and travelers who had the privilege of knowing Captain MacDonald.
Honoring the Memory of Captain James MacDonald
| “A bona fide luminary in the maritime sector and a cherished acquaintance to many across the seven seas. While serving aboard Royal Caribbean, I had the privilege of engaging in conversations with him on several occasions. Though brief, these interactions brightened everyone’s day,” Thomas Estepp shared on Facebook.
“My spouse and I frequently sailed with James on both the Liberty and The Harmony from Galveston, and we were captivated by his charm and rich Texan accent… We often engaged in conversations, as he was one of the few Captains who strolled around the ship from time to time,” another cruiser recounted. “Without a doubt, our preferred captain… We frequently encountered him during the Captain’s Corner sessions, and we are aware that he started at the bottom and worked his way up. He consistently patrolled the ship and displayed a genuinely kind demeanor,” George Whipple expressed. |
Captain James MacDonald, who resided in St Petersburg, Florida, commenced his journey with Royal Caribbean in 1990. He served as the inaugural captain of Radiance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, and Brilliance of the Seas. Many of the vessels under his command were based in Galveston, Texas.
