STORY UPDATED 23/1/19: A 22-year-old man who went missing on a cruise between Australia and New Zealand is believed to have died.
The young cruiser was sailing across the Tasman on a 13-night cruise from Melbourne on Golden Princess when he was reported missing.
The cruise line conducted an extensive search of the ship and made public onboard announcements, but was unable to find the man.
A Princess Cruises spokesperson told News.com.au that his family has been notified.
“Given the time that has elapsed since he was last seen on-board by other guests, with the deepest regret, and in consultation with the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, we have accepted the expert view that there is unfortunately no likelihood of survival.”
Princess Cruises Spokesperson
“The guest’s family was notified and our care team is providing support at this difficult time.”
ORIGINAL STORY 22/1/19: A 22-year-old cruiser has gone missing from a New Zealand-bound cruise ship overnight and is presumed overboard in the Tasman.
Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess was on a 13-night Trans-Tasman itinerary when a male passenger was reported missing.
The cruise line told News.com.au that crew attempted to locate the 22-year-old through public onboard announcements and a full search of the ship.
The Golden Princess cruise ship currently returning to Melbourne from New Zealand has a missing person, presumed overboard. All cabins searched in the middle of the night and again this morning. Ship is giving up search and returning to Melbourne with permission from AU Gov
— It's a disgrace (@thus9) January 21, 2019
Maritime Safety Authority’s Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Canberra was also notified and the CCTV footage is being reviewed.
In the statement to media, Princess Cruises said it was concerned about the welfare of its guests.
“An extensive search was conducted of the entire ship including all guest cabins and public spaces and CCTV footage is being reviewed.”
Princess Cruises
“We are naturally extremely concerned for the guest’s welfare.”
The cruise ship returned to Melbourne this morning.
KARRYON has contacted Princess Cruises for more information.
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