According to ABC News Australia, the remains of an 80-year-old Australian woman were found on Lizard Island after the Coral Adventurer cruise ship reportedly left her behind during a hiking tour. The search for the woman was initiated on Saturday night after she was reported missing hours following the ship’s departure from the island. The ship had departed between 6 and 7 p.m., leaving the woman stranded.
Rob Siganto, owner of South Pacific II fishing and charter boat, provided details about the incident, stating that the crew had been searching for the missing woman. The woman was on a group hiking tour of the island but did not return to the ship after it had departed. Siganto mentioned that the search team heard the radio conversation about the missing person and that the last known location of the woman was halfway up the hill.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is currently investigating the incident, though they have not yet responded to Fox News Digital inquiries. Traci Ayris, who was sailing in the area, reported that she was alerted to the search by the sound of a helicopter. The Coral Expeditions CEO, Mark Fifield, stated that the ship’s crew had been in contact with the woman’s family and that they would continue to provide support during this difficult time for the family.
While the investigation into the incident is ongoing, the cruise company has expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols in place for such excursions, particularly for older travelers who may be more vulnerable. The case has also sparked discussions about the responsibilities of cruise operators and the adequacy of emergency response procedures on remote islands.