Australia Cruise Cancelled After Passenger Dies on Remote Island
A 60-day cruise around Australia has been cancelled following the death of an 80-year-old woman who was left behind on Lizard Island after a shore excursion, raising questions about passenger safety protocols on expedition voyages.
Suzanne Rees was hiking with fellow passengers from the Coral Adventurer on October 26th when she became separated from the group and rested. The ship departed, believing all passengers were on board, and returned several hours later upon realizing she was missing. A subsequent search operation discovered her body the following day. Lizard Island is located approximately 250km (155 miles) north of Cairns.
Coral Expeditions CEO Mark Fifield announced yesterday that the remainder of the voyage was cancelled due to the “tragic passing of Suzanne Rees and previous mechanical issues.” He stated that passengers would receive a full refund and that the company is arranging chartered flights for their return. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (Amsa) has issued a notice prohibiting new passengers from boarding the Coral Adventurer and will inspect the vessel upon its return to Cairns. For more information on cruise safety regulations, see the Australian Maritime Safety Authority website.
Katherine Rees, the daughter of the deceased, expressed her family’s shock and sadness, stating, “From the little we have been told, it seems that there was a failure of care and common sense.” She added, “We understand from the police that it was a very hot day, and mum fell ill on the hill climb…Then the ship left, apparently without doing a passenger count.” The incident is under investigation by Amsa, Queensland Police, and the state coroner. You can find more details about expedition cruising here.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Suzanne Rees’ death and to assess whether safety procedures were adequately followed.
