A Caribbean cruise took a tragic turn last Saturday when a woman attempted to jump from the Sky Princess as it made its way back to Port Everglades.
The Princess cruise ship left on December 15 for an eight-day Western Caribbean voyage, calling on Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman Island, Cozumel, and the cruise line’s exclusive Bahamian resort Princess Cays.
Princess Cruises told Cruise Radio in a statement, “Princess Cruises is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of a 48-year-old American female guest who attempted to jump overboard earlier today aboard Sky Princess. The guest fell to a lower deck, where she was promptly rescued. Shipboard personnel immediately provided emergency medical care, but despite their best efforts, she could not be revived.”
It went on to say, “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the guest’s family and friends during this profoundly difficult time. Grief support services are being offered to guests and crew members affected by this event.”
As is common in such incidents, the woman’s identity has not been disclosed. It is believed that she was traveling with her family when during the incident.
Princess Cruises is cooperating fully with local and federal authorities as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Cruise Lines Make Accidental Falls Difficult
Cruise operators implement several measures to prevent accidental falls. These include high railings, balconies made with materials that are hard to climb over, cameras, motion sensors, patrolling crew members, man overboard detection systems, safety announcements, and signage.
Despite these initiatives, guests still find ways to put themselves in danger.
In January 2024, a woman was caught on camera as she stood on the awning of deck eight. Meanwhile, footage from 2017 showed a child climbing over a railing and jumping 20 feet into the pool below.
The cruise industry has experienced 17 man overboard incidents in 2024, with the latest marking number 18.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
