27-Year-Old Galley Steward Goes Overboard from Sun Princess in the Dardanelles – August 20, 2025

Introduction
Tragedy struck aboard Sun Princess on August 20, 2025, when a 27-year-old Kenyan crew member serving as Galley Steward went overboard while the ship was sailing through the Dardanelles Strait, Turkey. Despite extensive search operations, the missing crew member was not located, leading to itinerary disruptions and a profound sense of loss for passengers and crew.

Details of the Incident

Overboard Detection and Response:

• The fall was confirmed through CCTV review, prompting immediate activation of the vessel’s emergency protocols.
• The ship coordinated with Turkish maritime authorities, deploying multiple rescue boats to search the surrounding waters.
• Despite hours of coordinated search efforts, no trace of the missing steward was found.

Operational Consequences:

• The Sun Princess was instructed to remain near Tekirdağ, Turkey, to allow officials to board and investigate.
• This resulted in a delayed arrival in Istanbul, shifting docking to the afternoon of August 21.
• The scheduled port call at Mykonos on August 22 was cancelled entirely, with all pre-booked shore excursions refunded.

Company and Crew Response:

• The ship’s captain issued a message expressing sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the cruise line’s commitment to crew and passenger welfare.
• Princess Cruises activated its Family Assistance team to support the steward’s family.
• Counseling services were made available onboard to help passengers and fellow crew cope with the distressing event.

Context and Broader Impact:

• Overboard events, while rare, highlight the risks faced by maritime personnel working long contracts far from home.
• This incident adds to a series of high-profile overboard cases in 2025, sparking renewed focus on safety, crew welfare, and support systems aboard modern cruise vessels.