Elderly passenger missed by crew, found dead on Australian island

International

LEFT behind on a remote tropical island, an elderly cruise passenger in her 80s was later found dead, prompting an urgent investigation.

The woman, whose name has not been released, was reported missing on Saturday night when crew members discovered she had not reboarded the Coral Adventurer, a small luxury cruise ship that had docked at Lizard Island earlier that day.

Queensland Police confirmed her body was discovered on the island on Sunday, describing the death as “sudden and non-suspicious.” Officials have not yet determined when she died or why her absence went unnoticed when the ship departed.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) said in a CNN report that its investigation will focus on the circumstances that led to the passenger being unaccounted for during boarding.

AMSA also confirmed that the ship’s crew will be questioned when the Coral Adventurer arrives in Darwin on Nov. 2.

The Coral Adventurer, which accommodates up to 120 passengers and 46 crew members, had left Cairns on October 24, embarking on a 60-day luxury cruise around Australia. Lizard Island, located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) off the Queensland coast, was one of the first stops. The itinerary includes destinations along Cape York in the north and down to Western Australia’s coast.

Coral Expeditions promotes Lizard Island as a location for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking to viewpoints such as “Cook’s Look.” It remains unclear whether the woman took part in any of these activities.

Coral Expeditions CEO Mark Fifield said that a “land and sea” search began as soon as the crew realized the passenger was missing. He added that the company has been in contact with the woman’s family and will continue to provide support throughout the investigation, expressing that the company is deeply sorry this incident occurred.

Police stated the woman was reported missing “after failing to board a vessel in waters off Queensland earlier on Saturday.” AMSA confirmed it coordinated with Queensland authorities following the captain’s report at 9 p.m.

Coral Expeditions has operated for more than 40 years, offering cruises around Australia and beyond, and the company has emphasized its commitment to passenger safety while the investigation continues.(MyTVCebu)