Carnival Cruise Line Passenger Chooses to Stay in Bonaire
Carnival Cruise Line recently confirmed that a passenger from the Carnival Horizon chose not to return to the ship in Bonaire. This decision was not due to distress but a deliberate choice. Jessica Collins, a 47-year-old passenger, left the ship on 17th September 2025 during a stop in Kralendijk, Bonaire.
Passenger’s Intentions
Collins left the ship with all her belongings packed in a backpack. She even left a gratuity and thank-you note for her stateroom attendant. Later, she texted Carnival’s Care Team to confirm her safety and requested no further contact. Despite local authorities treating it as a missing person case, evidence suggests Collins intended to stay in Bonaire.
Cruise Continues as Planned
The Carnival Horizon continued its scheduled itinerary to Aruba and Curaçao. The ship returned to Miami on time, ready for its next voyage. Standard procedures were followed when Collins did not return by the all-aboard time. Announcements were made, and security photos showed her leaving with a packed bag. Initially, this did not raise alarms as many guests carry bags for excursions.
Online Concerns
Photos of Collins circulated online, sparking concern among guests and cruise enthusiasts. Recent incidents on other cruises, where guests went missing and faced medical distress, heightened these worries. However, Carnival’s confirmation reassures that Collins is safe and her actions were intentional.
Legal and Emigration Considerations
Abandoning a cruise ship is not a legal method to emigrate. Collins’ motivations remain unclear, but her decision raises questions about long-term stays on Caribbean islands. In Bonaire, US citizens can enter without a visa but need a residence permit for extended stays. These permits are valid for one year and can be renewed for up to five years. Achieving longer-term residency or Dutch citizenship involves meeting strict criteria.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the importance of following official procedures for relocation. While cruise holidays can inspire dreams of living abroad, legal pathways must be pursued. Carnival continues to cooperate with Bonaire authorities, reiterating that this was a deliberate choice by Collins.
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