A Miami couple has been accused of defrauding friends and relatives out of tens of thousands of dollars for a Royal Caribbean cruise that was never actually booked, according to authorities.
Antonio Diaz, 65, and Maria Blasco Diaz, 64, were arrested on 7th April as part of an investigation by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office. Police allege the pair took a total of $200,259.85 through a series of schemes, including nearly $45,000 tied to a supposed family cruise.
The case centres on a victim who approached Blasco Diaz for advice about booking a cruise, given her experience with sailing. Prosecutors say she claimed to have access to discounted fares through a contact purportedly employed by Royal Caribbean.
According to the arrest report, the offer extended beyond the cruise fare itself. “Ms. Diaz offered cruise excursions, drink packages, room upgrades, hotel stays, transportation, and travel insurance,” investigators stated.
The victim and their family ultimately transferred $44,910 via a combination of Zelle payments, cheques and cash.
Cruise Booking Never Materialised
The sailing in question was due to depart on 9th July 2023 aboard Odyssey of the Seas. However, concerns were raised when travel documents had still not been issued by late June.
Authorities say Blasco Diaz provided a series of explanations, including a claim that her contact at the cruise line had been dismissed. When the victim later contacted Royal Caribbean directly, they were informed that while a reservation number existed, it was not linked to the family.
Investigators also allege that attempts to refund the money were unsuccessful. Blasco Diaz reportedly issued cheques as partial repayment, promising to cover the remaining balance through a home equity line of credit. Those cheques were later found to be drawn from a newly opened account with insufficient funds.
Despite further assurances, no repayment was ultimately made, according to the arrest report.
Wider Allegations Involving Luxury Goods
The cruise scheme forms part of a broader set of allegations against the couple. Authorities claim they also accepted nearly $139,000 in deposits for 16 Rolex watches and a Patek Philippe timepiece, none of which were delivered.
In addition, victims are said to have paid around $3,000 for discounted diamond earrings and more than $13,400 on other jewellery purchases that never materialised.
Police reports indicate that Antonio Diaz invoked his right to legal counsel, while Blasco Diaz admitted to the alleged actions but claimed her husband was not involved. Both have since entered not guilty pleas.
Royal Caribbean Group and a lawyer representing the couple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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