A lifeguard employed by MSC Cruises has been arrested in Miami following allegations of sexual contact with a 17-year-old passenger aboard MSC World America. Rafael Cayetano Blanco, 38, faces a second-degree felony charge of unlawful sexual activity with a minor, with bond set at $7,500. According to investigators, Blanco allegedly met the passenger on August 16 during a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise and engaged in sexual activity with her twice over the course of the voyage.
The incidents allegedly occurred in Blanco's cabin on August 16 and again on August 19. When MSC World America returned to Port Miami on August 22, Blanco was detained and later arrested by the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office. He reportedly admitted to the alleged conduct during questioning. If convicted, Blanco faces up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He remains in custody on an immigration hold pending court proceedings.
MSC Cruises said it dismissed Blanco immediately upon discovering the alleged breach of conduct. In a statement, the cruise line confirmed it contacted law enforcement, assisted the affected passenger, and cooperated fully with the investigation. MSC World America, a 216,638-ton vessel based in Miami since entering service in April 2025, resumed operations as scheduled. The ship departed on its next cruise on August 22, sailing an Eastern Caribbean and Bahamas itinerary without apparent operational delays.
For cruise passengers, incidents of this nature underscore the importance of understanding cruise ship safety procedures and crew conduct expectations. MSC World America continues to operate its regular alternating Caribbean itineraries from Miami. Passengers concerned about onboard safety or conduct violations have the right to report concerns to crew members or ship security immediately during their voyage.
Originally reported by Cruise Hive, Calvin Musquez (August 25, 2026).
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