Major search operation launched
The waters north of Tenerife have become the scene of an intensive search operation following the disappearance of a 76-year-old British man who entered the sea from the cruise ship Marella Explorer 2. The incident occurred on Thursday, 27 November, while the ship was sailing towards La Gomera, and has caused concern among passengers, crew, and family members, as reported by The Guardian.
Incident in open waters
According to a statement from Marella Cruises, operated by TUI UK, the passenger was seen entering the water for reasons still unknown. The event took place approximately 30.5 kilometres northwest of Punta de Teno, an area of open sea where conditions can be particularly challenging. The alert was raised at 9:48 am, at which point the cruise ship notified the Tenerife Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre of the emergency.
Large-scale rescue effort deployed
The response was immediate, with a large-scale maritime and aerial search and rescue operation mobilised to scour the area for the missing man. Helicopters and search vessels took part in the large-scale effort to locate the cruise passenger, although today the operation has been “scaled back”. Despite the deployment, the man has not been found, and sea conditions are hampering the search efforts.
Cruise line offers support
In a statement reported by the British newspaper, Marella Cruises expressed its dismay at what had happened: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water whilst the ship was sailing to La Gomera. Our thoughts are with this individual and their loved ones during this difficult time.” The company added that its care team is providing ongoing support to the missing man’s family and that it will continue to work closely with the Spanish authorities.
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