Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas — the world’s biggest cruise ship — faced an unexpected scare this week when a guest was injured on one of its signature water slides.

The accident happened Thursday in the ship’s “Thrill Island” area, where an acrylic glass panel on the slide suddenly detached mid-ride. Crew and medical staff responded immediately, and the passenger is now stable and receiving treatment.

The incident has raised fresh questions about safety standards for onboard attractions. While cruise ships follow strict international regulations and inspections are routine, malfunctions like this spark concern over design flaws, maintenance, and the impact of the harsh sea environment.

Royal Caribbean has temporarily closed the slide and launched a full investigation, promising that passenger safety remains its top priority. No other injuries have been reported.

Though rare, such incidents are a reminder that even the most advanced ships aren’t immune to unexpected issues. For now, the Icon of the Seas continues sailing, with most guests still enjoying its record-breaking amenities while awaiting updates on the investigation.