Authorities are searching for a passenger who apparently jumped overboard a cruise ship bound for Sydney.
Carnival Splendor, a cruise ship owned by Carnival Cruise Lines, reported a male passenger had fallen around 30km north-east of Moreton Island, Queensland last night.
A Carnival Cruise Line spokesperson said family of the passenger notified the crew, who subsequently told authorities.
Carnival Splendor sails in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. (Wolter Peeters)
“Carnival confirmed on Saturday that Carnival Splendor was assisting authorities search for a guest who apparently climbed over the safety railing and jumped overboard as the ship was sailing from Moreton Island towards Sydney overnight,” the spokesperson said.
“A review of the CCTV footage confirmed the guest’s action.”
The spokesperson added the company would continue to assist authorities once the ship docks in Sydney tomorrow.
“Carnival’s Care Team is supporting the guest’s family and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved one,” the spokesperson said.
A search and rescue effort is now underway, being led by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
“[AMSA] has tasked its Cairns and Melbourne-based Challenger jets, five rescue helicopters from around the metropolitan Brisbane area, and six surface vessels into the area, with Queensland Police assisting AMSA with the operation,” an AMSA spokesperson said in a statement.
Carnival Splendor sails in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific region, according to Carnival Australia’s website.
It is 952 feet (290m) long, and can hold over 3000 passengers and 1150 crew onboard.
If you or someone you know is in need of support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue. In the event of an emergency dial Triple Zero (000).
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