Sadly, a 79-year-old woman passed away on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Jewel over weekend, while on a family holiday with her daughter and grandson.
The ship was docked in Cairns as part of the 10-day ‘Barrier Reef Discovery’ itinerary, when Margaret Carlson’s passing was reported.
Police called to the vessel told media that early investigations ruled out anything suspicious and said Carlson passed away from natural causes, News.com.au reported.
“There was nothing suspicious.”
Queensland Police
“An autopsy will be performed, that’s in accordance with our standard procedure.”
Image: P&O Cruises
The police statement came after reports that the grandmother may have been victim to a gastro outbreak while on the ship.
In a statement, a P&O Cruises spokesperson confirmed there was no gastro outbreak on Pacific Jewel during her recent cruise.
“Reports that there had been a gastro outbreak on the ship are incorrect,” the spokesperson said.
The cruise line said due to passenger privacy, no further comment could be made on the cause of the death.
“Our thoughts are with the family at such a difficult time.”
P&O Cruises Spokesperson
The ship is expected to sail back into Sydney later this week
