Cruise Passenger Found Dead After Being Left Behind on Lizard Island

An 80-year-old woman, Suzanne Rees, was found dead on Lizard Island after being inadvertently left behind by the Coral Adventurer cruise ship. The incident occurred during a 60-day voyage around Australia, with Lizard Island as the first stop. Ms. Rees had joined a group hike to the island's highest peak but separated from the group to rest. The ship departed without conducting a passenger count, realizing her absence only hours later. A search operation located her body the following day.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including why Ms. Rees was not accounted for during boarding. Queensland Police are also assisting with the investigation, treating the death as "sudden and non-suspicious."

Coral Expeditions CEO Mark Fifield expressed condolences, stating the company is "deeply sorry that this has occurred" and is offering full support to Ms. Rees's family.

Ms. Rees's daughter, Katherine Rees, criticized the cruise line for a "failure of care and common sense," noting that her mother was asked to descend unescorted and the ship left without conducting a passenger count.

AMSA has issued a notice to the Coral Adventurer's master, prohibiting new passengers from boarding until further notice. The ship is expected to return to Cairns, where authorities will continue their inquiries.