The Brais Law Firm has been retained to represent Hannah Smith, a 22-year-old who suffered catastrophic injuries during a shore excursion in Nassau, Bahamas, booked through Carnival Cruise Line. The incident, which occurred on May 12, 2025, resulted in Smith losing both legs after being drawn into the propellers of a catamaran operated by Pearl Investment Management Group, Ltd. and Sun Cay Ltd. The firm is investigating potential lawsuits against Carnival Corporation and the excursion operators for negligence and unsafe practices.
Preliminary findings suggest Carnival may be held liable for failing to ensure the safety of third-party excursions it promotes, while the excursion operators are accused of violating basic safety standards by allowing passenger disembarkation with the vessel's engines running. Carnival is expected to deny liability, claiming the operators were independent contractors. However, Brais Law Firm argues that Carnival's role in marketing the excursion establishes apparent agency under maritime law.
The case underscores the risks associated with cruise line shore excursions and the importance of stringent safety measures. Smith's family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support her medical and rehabilitation expenses.
