dumping waste oil from its cruise ships for at least four years.

And it was alleged that RCCL conspired to cover up the violations by falsifying documents and lying to the US Coast Guard, Bloomberg Business News reported.

Vessels accused by federal authorities include frequent Bermuda visitor Song of America and one-time visitor the Nordic Prince .

The ten-count indictment alleges that the Miami-based company illegally dumped oil from the ships for various periods ranging from August 1990 to October 1994.

In preparation for Coast Guard checks, the crew on ships routinely removed the extra hose used to drain waste oil in the water, the indictment adds.

The US government accused the company of engaging in the systematic process of dumping waste oil to avoid expenses associated with regular maintenance of the equipment that separates the oil from other liquids.

Cruise ships routinely separate waste oil from other liquids and store them in a ship's bottom, or bilges, until they can be disposed of in port.

The Coast Guard, which enforces US laws on the high seas, routinely checks large vessels to make sure they are complying with federal anti-pollution laws.

All ships greater than 400 gross tons are required by law to keep an "oil record book,'' logging disposal of sludge and oil that accumulates in a ship's bowels during a trip.

Royal Caribbean could face millions of dollars in fines, based on a maximum fine of $500,000 per count.

This is the first case the Justice Department has brought against a cruise operator involving charges of conspiracy and obstruction of justice.

Marine and Ports director Ron Ross said there were a number of agencies which monitored Bermuda's waters to ensure there was no illegal oil dumping taking place.