Featured Image Credit: David Sacks/Getty Images
Topics: Cruise Ship, Travel, Health
Joshua Nair
A cruise ship heading through Asia this week received tragic news while docked in Keelung, Taiwan.
Passengers aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship were told that the captain had died on 19 May after a medical emergency.
Michele Bartolomei, who was just 52 at the time of his death, passed away during the three-week voyage. It occurred in the early morning before passengers were sent a letter detailing the tragic news.
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An announcement was also made on the public address system, reported the Daily Mail.
9News reported that shortly before the announcement, though, at around 2 a.m., a call was blared on the boat's loudspeaker urging the medical team to respond to an emergency.
In a Facebook statement, Princess Cruises wrote: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Captain Michele Bartolomei, a beloved member of the Princess Cruises family whose career at sea spanned more than 30 years.
"Since joining Princess in 1995, he made a lasting impact on our fleet and our guests.
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"From new ship deliveries to world cruises, Captain Bartolomei's leadership, professionalism, and deep love for the ocean inspired all who had the privilege of sailing with him.
"Our hearts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time, and we extend our deepest condolences to them. We also stand in support of the Diamond Princess crew and all team members across our fleet mourning this loss."
They told travellers that their commitment to safety and 'the smooth operation of this voyage' was their top priority.
Since his death, Bartolomei has been replaced by Captain Salvatore Macera. The letter given to passengers also said the 'experienced' bridge team would help (via 9News).
The ship departed Tokyo on 6 May for a 19-day voyage, which was set to dock in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China before its return.
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Crew Center further reported that 'vacationers were unnerved' at first by the news, as many were asleep at the time.
Bartolomei lived in Canada and trained at nautical schools in Italy.
Close friend Dave Wallensky wrote about the late Captain, saying: "I'm absolutely shattered. He was one of the best things that happened to me and Lesleigh [another captain], and we spent the night last night sobbing.
"And laughing about what we did together. And sobbing again."
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It's reported by The New York Times that the Diamond Princess has an onboard morgue - similar to all major liners - with a stainless steel, refrigerated room that can hold up to 10 deceased people.
LADbible Group has contacted Princess Cruises for further comment.