Australian authorities are investigating the death of an 80-year-old woman who was left behind on Lizard Island, a remote location in the Great Barrier Reef, after her cruise ship departed during a stopover. Police confirmed the woman’s death on Sunday, describing it as “sudden and non-suspicious.”
The passenger, who had been travelling aboard the Coral Adventurer on a cruise around Australia, was reported missing at about 9pm local time on Saturday, according to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). The small expedition vessel had earlier made a scheduled stop at Lizard Island, off the coast of Queensland, as part of its itinerary.
Authorities Launch Investigation
Preliminary reports suggest the woman became separated from other guests during a walk on the island. AMSA said it is examining “the circumstances surrounding why the passenger may not have been accounted for during boarding” and is working with other agencies as part of its investigation. Officials from the authority are expected to meet the vessel in Darwin later this week, where it is due to arrive on its voyage north.
Mark Fifield, CEO of Coral Expeditions, confirmed the incident in a statement, describing it as “the tragic death of a passenger on the Coral Adventurer during an excursion to Lizard Island.” He added: “While investigations into the incident are continuing, we are deeply sorry that this has occurred and are offering our full support to the woman’s family.”
Coral Expeditions Confirms Support for Family
Coral Expeditions operates small-ship cruises across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, catering to up to 120 guests per voyage. The company’s itineraries on the Coral Adventurer include routes around the Kimberley, Tasmania, and the Great Barrier Reef, with cabins often priced in the tens of thousands of Australian dollars.
Lizard Island, part of a national park around 240 kilometres north of Cairns, is a popular stop for high-end cruises and marine research excursions. Known for its coral reefs and isolated beaches, it is accessible only by air or sea. Authorities said inquiries into the passenger’s death are ongoing, with results expected following coordination between local police, AMSA, and the cruise operator.
The Coral Adventurer has continued its scheduled voyage while assisting investigators. No further details about the deceased passenger have been released pending family notification.
