Search underway after Carnival cruise passenger goes overboard off Queensland coast
A large-scale search and rescue operation is underway off the Queensland coast after a passenger went overboard from a Carnival cruise ship overnight, just hours after another passenger from the same vessel died during a snorkelling excursion.
Emergency authorities are searching waters near Moreton Island after a man was reported missing from the Carnival Splendor on Friday night as the ship travelled south along Australia’s east coast.
The alarm was raised when family members were unable to locate the passenger and alerted crew members, prompting an urgent review of onboard CCTV footage.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) confirmed it is coordinating the search operation, deploying multiple aircraft, rescue helicopters and surface vessels to scour the area.
Authorities said the search zone is located about 53 kilometres east of Moreton Island, near Brisbane. Queensland Police are assisting with the operation.
A spokesperson for Carnival Cruise Line said CCTV footage confirmed the man had climbed over a safety railing before entering the water.
“All appropriate authorities have been alerted and Carnival will assist authorities in their investigation upon the ship’s return to Sydney,” the spokesperson said.
Earlier death during snorkelling trip
The incident occurred only hours after a separate tragedy involving another passenger from the same ship.
Police said a 67-year-old Tasmanian woman was found unresponsive in the water near the Tangalooma shipwrecks – a popular snorkelling destination – about 11.46am on Friday.
Emergency responders attempted to revive her, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
Carnival Cruise Line said the two incidents are not believed to be connected.
The company added that support services were being provided to the families affected by the events.
