A 23-year-old passenger on a cruise around Northern Europe went overboard and is missing following reportedly sending his wife a message that he felt seasick.
The man went missing from the MSC Euribia on March 17, two days following disembarking from the port city of Southampton on England’s south coast, a spokesperson for MSC Cruises told Fox News Digital in a statement. The cruise line believes the man intentionally went overboard.
“A passenger on board MSC Euribia was reported missing, who we believe intentionally went overboard, on 17 March as the ship sailed from Hamburg to Rotterdam,” the statement said. “The authorities have been informed and have been on board the vessel. We are deeply saddened by this news and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will refrain from disclosing any additional information.”
The ship was scheduled to sail to Hamburg, Germany, Rotterdam, Netherlands, Bruges, Belgium, and Le Havre, France, the BBC reported. The vessel returned to Southampton on Friday, where police boarded the vessel to investigate the incident for the coroner.
The Glasgow-based Daily Record identified the man as Liam Jones, a 23-year-old student from Dundee, Scotland, who was studying social work.
Jones’ wife, 20-year-old Sophia Mcphee, told the outlet that she had received very little information regarding what happened, though she revealed that her husband had complained of feeling seasick in his final text message to her.
The incident involving the missing passenger on the MSC Euribia cruise ship brings attention to the potential dangers and risks associated with cruise travel. While cruises are often seen as luxurious and enjoyable experiences, this unfortunate incident reminds us of the sobering fact that accidents can happen even on seemingly safe and enjoyable vacations.
The cruise industry will undoubtedly be affected by this incident, as it highlights the importance of safety measures and protocols on board. Cruise companies will need to reassess their security measures and ensure that proper precautions are in place to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
This incident also raises questions regarding the mental health and well-being of passengers on cruises. It is concerning to think that someone would intentionally go overboard, and it underscores the need for better mental health support and resources for passengers on cruise ships. Cruise companies should consider implementing measures to identify and assist passengers who may be experiencing mental health issues during their voyage.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this incident also serves as a reminder of the additional challenges and risks associated with traveling on cruise ships. As the industry recovers from the impact of the pandemic, cruise companies will need to prioritize the health and safety of their passengers and implement strict measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases on board.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for the cruise industry to learn from incidents like this and make necessary changes to improve safety and enhance passenger experience. This may involve stricter safety regulations, improved communication and support systems on board, and a greater focus on mental health and well-being.
While the incident involving the missing passenger on the MSC Euribia cruise ship is certainly tragic, it serves as an opportunity for the cruise industry to reflect on the importance of safety, security, and passenger well-being. By addressing these issues and making necessary changes, the industry can strive to provide safer and more enjoyable experiences for all cruise passengers in the future.