Royal Caribbean Cruise Scam: Miami Couple Accused of $200K Fraud
Two Miami residents are facing serious allegations of fraud, accused of swindling friends and their families out of nearly $200,000. The scheme involved a fabricated Royal Caribbean cruise deal and promises of discounted luxury goods, leaving victims financially and emotionally devastated.
The Alleged Scam
Antonio Diaz, 65, and his wife, Maria Blasco Diaz, 64, were arrested on April 7th, following an investigation by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office. The arrest report details a total alleged theft of $200,259.85. The scam reportedly began when one victim sought advice from Blasco Diaz regarding a Royal Caribbean cruise, knowing her frequent travel history.
Blasco Diaz allegedly presented herself as having access to exclusive discounts through a friend purportedly working for Royal Caribbean. She offered enticing packages including cruise excursions, drink packages, room upgrades, hotel stays, transportation, and travel insurance. Victims, trusting her claims, paid a total of $44,910 through Zelle, checks, and cash. Checks were cashed by Ms. Diaz, and Zelle payments were directed to Mr. Diaz.
The Cruise That Never Was
The promised Royal Caribbean cruise, scheduled for July 9, 2023, aboard the Odyssey of the Seas, never materialized. As the departure date approached, Blasco Diaz failed to provide travel documents, offering a series of excuses, including a claim that her contact at the cruise line had been terminated. Partial repayments were made with checks that later proved to be drawn from an account with insufficient funds.
When the victim contacted Royal Caribbean directly, they discovered the reservation number was active but not assigned to her or any family member. Further attempts to secure a refund from the Diaz couple were unsuccessful.
Beyond the Cruise: Luxury Goods Fraud
The alleged fraud extended beyond the cruise. The couple also allegedly accepted deposits totaling nearly $139,000 for sixteen Rolex watches and one Patek Philippe watch, beginning in 2022. They claimed victims would benefit from a 50% discount due to Diaz’s supposed employment at a jewelry store, along with “discounted” diamond earrings for $3,000. None of these items were ever delivered. Additional jewelry purchases made by family members totaled over $13,400.
Legal Proceedings and Responses
Antonio Diaz invoked his right to counsel, while Blasco Diaz initially confessed to the crimes, claiming her husband was uninvolved. Both defendants have since pleaded not guilty. Royal Caribbean Group and an attorney representing the couple have not yet responded to requests for comment.
This case serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution when booking travel or purchasing luxury goods through unofficial channels. Always verify information directly with the provider, such as Royal Caribbean, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. You can find more information about avoiding travel scams on the Federal Trade Commission website.
