The Norwegian Epic Cruise Ship’s search for a man who fell overboard has concluded

The Norwegian Epic cruise ship’s search for a 51-year-old passenger who went overboard during its journey to the Bahamas has been concluded by rescue teams. Despite extensive search efforts, the man who was reported missing on Thursday afternoon has not been located.

At approximately 3 p.m. local time, the Norwegian Epic was en route from Ocho Rios, Jamaica, to Nassau, Bahamas, when the passenger was reported missing. Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed that a search and rescue operation was initiated promptly. Nevertheless, the mission became increasingly difficult as nightfall approached, which impeded visibility and complicated the mission.

“The ship was released by the authorities and continued its voyage after an extensive search that was regrettably unsuccessful,” stated a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line.

The passenger, who was traveling with a large party and family members, is being remembered by loved ones during this devastating time. According to a statement issued by the cruise line, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

The circumstances of the man’s fall are still uncertain, and no further information has been disclosed.

According to Cruise Junkie, this is the 19th overboard incident on a cruise ship this year, which underscores a concerning trend. A 48-year-old woman regrettably passed away less than a week ago after attempting to leap overboard from a Princess Cruises ship. After collapsing onto a lower deck that was 10 stories below, she suffered fatal injuries.

In a few occasions, passengers who have fallen overboard have been rescued. A 28-year-old man was discovered alive in November 2022 after diving overboard from the Carnival Valor cruise ship. He was able to tread water for nearly 20 hours before being rescued off the coast of Louisiana.