Overboard Europe Atlantic Ocean · 3 May 2024
Crew Member Presumed Overboard from Ambience in the Atlantic Ocean: Incident on 3 May 2024
What happened
On 3 May 2024, a male crew member from India was reported missing and presumed overboard from the cruise vessel Ambience in the Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Port La Coruna and northwest of Vigo. The incident triggered an immediate search and rescue response, with the vessel altering course and requesting assistance from the Spanish Coastguard. Despite extensive efforts, the search was called off on May 4 without locating the crew member.
The incident occurred during the final leg of Ambience's World Voyage 2024, a 30-day segment returning from Cape Town to London-Tilbury. The vessel's crew initiated onboard search protocols and coordinated with regional maritime authorities in response to the disappearance.
Details of the rescue
The crew member was last accounted for shortly after breakfast on May 3. Concerns were raised when he did not report for duty, prompting an immediate onboard search. The master altered the vessel's course to return to the last known position of the missing man. The Spanish Civil Guard and Coastguard were requested to assist in the search effort. Despite coordinated search operations spanning into May 4, the crew member was not located and the search was eventually suspended.
Crew
Missing crew member
- Nationality: India
- Status: Presumed overboard; not located despite search efforts
Casualties
Fatalities
- 1 crew member presumed deceased (missing and presumed overboard).
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- None; search suspended without locating the missing crew member.
Emergency response
Upon discovery of the missing crew member, the vessel immediately initiated onboard search procedures and altered course to return to the last known position. The Spanish Civil Guard and Coastguard were notified and provided assistance in the search effort. The coordinated response continued through 4 May 2024, before being called off.
Current status
The search for the missing crew member was suspended on 4 May 2024, without a positive outcome. The vessel continued its voyage to London-Tilbury. The incident underscores the critical importance of safety protocols and emergency response procedures aboard cruise ships.