The captain of a cruise ship has died while working on board, guests have been told.

Captain Michele Bartolomei, while steering the Diamond Princess on a 19-night journey across Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China, has passed away.

A letter, which has been shared online, was delivered to passengers’ cabins announcing the devastating update.

“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Captain Michele Bartolomei, who tragically died onboard the Diamond Princess due to a sudden medical emergency,” the statement revealed.

“Our hearts are with Captain Bartolomei’s family during this incredibly difficult time.”

It added that the Italian captain was a “respected leader’ with “decades of service at sea”.

The letter told passengers said the ship would be commanded by Captain Salvatore Macera alongside the rest of the “experienced” bridge team.

Passengers reported being woken up in the early hours by an announcement asking the medical team to report to the medical centre.

Announcements of the captain’s death were also made over the ship’s PA.

Back in January, Bartolomei joined Captain Mario Consentino of the Crown Princess for a coffee in Sydney Harbour, celebrating the memorable event of the two ships crossing paths.

He was about to celebrate 30 years of service with the company, according to his LinkedIn page.

He also had his own fishing boat and had worked 18 seasons cruising Alaska, he said.

He lived in Canada and had studied at nautical schools in Italy.

Friends and cruisers paid tribute to the Captain.

Dave Wallensky said: “Captain Bartolomei spent almost 30 years flying the Princess flag. He was a legend on the sea – but he was my friend.”

“Very much loved, and will be very much missed,” another said.

Princess Cruises has been contacted for comment.