A 72-year-old British passenger is missing after going overboard from the Marella Voyager during an Atlantic crossing, prompting an emergency headcount and an international marine alert.
The cruise liner left Malaga on November 4, carrying roughly 2,000 passengers and 800 crew members on a voyage bound for Antigua, Dominica, and Barbados. The 72-year-old woman was last seen on the vessel on Monday afternoon, according to The Sun. Crew members first realized she was missing on Tuesday when a cabin steward noticed her bed had not been slept in overnight.
By the time the disappearance was flagged, the cruise ship had already sailed approximately 550 miles past the estimated location of the fall. Tour operator Tui confirmed that the vessel would not turn back to search open waters.
Following the discovery, the ship’s crew initiated an immediate vessel-wide search and ordered holidaymakers to abandon dinners, drinks, and entertainment on Tuesday evening. Passengers were instructed to gather at muster stations as crew members scanned boarding cards to verify every individual on board.
One crew member told assembled travelers that the roll call was “the only way we can find out if they’re on board or not”, while another reassured guests by stating, “This is just to check who’s here. Do not move ahead and think we have to leave the ship.”
The following day, Captain Silviu Mitrea addressed the ship to confirm the ongoing search. Captain Mitrea stated: “I want to explain why.” He added that the crew had “conducted the relevant searches straight away” and urged guests to contact guest services if they held any information.
The US Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Centre in Norfolk, Virginia, issued an active alert instructing nearby vessels to “keep a sharp look out” for the missing woman. Tour operator Tui said that they are supporting the authorities with their enquiries.
We’re deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was reported missing on board Marella Voyager while the ship was crossing the Atlantic. As soon as the alarm was raised, the crew carried out a full search of the ship and we contacted the relevant authorities straight away. Our thoughts are with the guest’s loved ones at this very difficult time. We’re supporting the authorities with their enquiries, and out of respect for the guest and their family, we won’t be commenting further at this stage.
Marella Cruises spokesperson
While the voyage had previously encountered strong winds and rough seas, Tui said that nothing indicates weather contributed to the passenger’s disappearance. The British Foreign Office confirmed diplomatic support for the family, with a spokesperson stating: “We are supporting the family of a British National reported missing on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean and we are in touch with the relevant authorities.”
