Throughout the crisis, Norwegian Cruise Line has not responded to multiple requests for comment from Business Insider, including for this story.
A 56-year-old male crew member from the Philippines had died on the ship after being treated on board for pneumonia and tachycardia arrhythmia, according to a statement prepared by NCL's communications department and obtained by Business Insider. The prepared remarks were never publicly released, but they were emailed to some team members on April 13.
Sitting at port in Miami on April 13 with little to do but look out their windows, the crew watched as the ambulance arrived at the Gem. A group of people in hazmat suits rolled out a body, covered in a white sheet, using a stretcher. A video of the event, shared with Business Insider by two different crew members on two other ships, spread widely.
Two people — one on board and one a crew member's friend — posited whether the cruise line was being completely forthcoming about coronavirus cases on the ship, especially since another cruise line reportedly tried to cover up cases among workers.
Disappointments were not meant to destroy you. They were meant to strengthen you and give you fortitude to accomplish your God-given destiny.