An older individual was believed to have intentionally gone overboard from a cruise ship and is presumed to have passed away, shortly after a woman from the same vessel died.
The incident occurred on the Carnival Splendor while it was sailing off the coast of Brisbane, Australia, yesterday morning. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) conducted a search and rescue operation, but unfortunately, the man was not found and is now presumed deceased.
At 1:44 am, the ship’s PA system issued a ‘man overboard’ alert, with tracking data indicating a change in course around 1:55 am. The man’s family reportedly notified the crew of his disappearance.
According to Carnival, CCTV footage revealed the man climbing over the safety railing and jumping overboard. The search and rescue effort lasted approximately 16 hours before being halted at 5:30 pm.
An AMSA representative stated, “Following an intensive air and sea search involving multiple assets, the missing person was not located, and AMSA has now released all assets from tasking.”
The ship was en route from Moreton Island to Sydney when the incident occurred overnight. Carnival Cruise informed authorities promptly.
A spokesperson mentioned, “All appropriate authorities have been notified, and Carnival will cooperate with the investigation upon the ship’s return to Sydney. Carnival’s Care Team is providing support to the guest’s family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved one.”
This incident follows the drowning death of another passenger from the same ship during a snorkelling excursion. The 67-year-old Tasmanian woman was discovered unresponsive in the water on Friday morning, according to police reports.
The Carnival Splendor has a capacity for up to 3000 passengers and 1150 crew members, stretching 952ft. It operates in the Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific regions.
