Rescue teams have ended their search for a 51-year-old man who fell overboard from the Norwegian Epic cruise ship during its voyage to the Bahamas. The man, who was reported missing on Thursday afternoon, has not been found despite extensive search efforts.
The Norwegian Epic was en route from Ocho Rios, Jamaica, to Nassau, Bahamas, when the man was reported missing at approximately 3 p.m. local time. Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed that a search and rescue operation was launched immediately. However, the mission grew more challenging as nightfall set in, limiting visibility and complicating efforts.
“After an extensive search that was unfortunately unsuccessful, the ship was released by the authorities and continued its voyage,” a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson said.
The passenger, who was traveling with a large group and family members on board, is being remembered by loved ones during this devastating time. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time,” the cruise line said in a statement.
The circumstances surrounding the man’s fall remain unclear, and no additional details have been released.
This marks the 19th overboard incident on a cruise ship this year, according to Cruise Junkie, highlighting a troubling trend. Less than a week ago, a 48-year-old woman tragically died after attempting to jump overboard from a Princess Cruises ship. She sustained fatal injuries after falling onto a lower deck 10 stories below.
In some rare cases, overboard passengers have been rescued. In November 2022, a 28-year-old man was found alive after falling overboard from the Carnival Valor cruise ship, treading water for nearly 20 hours before being rescued off the coast of Louisiana
