Passenger falls overboard from Norwegian cruise in Caribbean; search efforts halted

A passenger fell from the Norwegian Epic cruise ship in Caribbean waters, leading to an unsuccessful search operation, according to the cruise line.
The incident occurred at approximately 3 pm Thursday whilst the vessel was travelling between Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.
A Norwegian Cruise Line representative informed The New York Post, “The authorities were immediately notified, and a search and rescue operation under the guidance and oversight of the Bahamas Rescue Coordination Center went underway.”
Following an extensive search effort, which included assistance from another cruise vessel, authorities permitted the Norwegian Epic to resume its journey.
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The circumstances of the passenger’s fall remain unclear. He was travelling with family members and a larger group, who are receiving support during this crisis, according to the cruise line.
The spokesperson stated: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
The vessel deployed a flare to mark the location of the incident and conducted repeated circular searches, as reported by Cruise Hive.
The Zuiderdam, a Holland America Line vessel in the vicinity, participated in the search operation.
Social media footage from a Norwegian Epic passenger shows fellow travellers observing the waters from their balconies, attempting to locate the missing person.
The Norwegian Epic is currently undertaking a seven-night Caribbean journey, having departed from Canaveral, Florida, on Saturday.