Authorities are currently conducting a search for a cruise ship passenger who reportedly jumped overboard from the Carnival Splendor, which was en route to Sydney. The incident occurred approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Moreton Island, Queensland, on the night before last.
The cruise line, owned by Carnival Cruise Lines, was notified by the passenger’s family after the individual fell from the ship. A spokesperson for Carnival confirmed that crew members promptly alerted the relevant authorities once the family reported the situation.
Carnival Splendor has joined forces with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) in the search efforts, with the spokesperson stating that CCTV footage corroborated the passenger’s actions of climbing over the safety railing and jumping into the water as the ship was making its way toward Sydney. The cruise line has committed to providing ongoing assistance to authorities when the ship arrives in Sydney tomorrow.
The AMSA has mobilised considerable resources for the search, deploying Challenger jets from Cairns and Melbourne, five rescue helicopters from the Brisbane metropolitan area, and six surface vessels. Queensland Police are cooperating with AMSA to facilitate the operation.
Carnival Splendor, which travels throughout Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, is a substantial cruise ship measuring 290 metres in length and capable of accommodating over 3,000 passengers alongside a crew of 1,150.
In light of this distressing event, the cruise line expressed its support for the passenger’s family, extending thoughts and prayers to them during this difficult time.
For those in need of support, Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14, and for emergencies, Triple Zero (000) should be dialled.