Woman dies after being left by cruise ship on small island

Photo: unsplash.com, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

Australian authorities are investigating the death of an 80-year-old woman who was left behind on Lizard Island, a remote part of the Great Barrier Reef, after a cruise ship departed without her, the BBC reported.

The woman had joined a guided hike to Cook’s Look — the island’s highest point, known for its panoramic views — from the Coral Adventurer, which was cruising around remote coastal regions of Australia, on Saturday. She fell behind the group during the hike, and the ship departed after sunset. Several hours later, the crew realized she was missing and returned to search for her.

A rescue team found her dead the next morning. Officials said her death was not suspicious, which will be reflected in a report for the coroner.

However, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority has launched an investigation and will interview the ship’s crew upon the vessel’s arrival in Darwin later this week.

Coral Expeditions, which operates the Coral Adventurer, said it was deeply saddened by the «tragic death» and is supporting the woman’s family.