Death Pacific Vanuatu · 26 September 2023
Passenger Death (Drowning) During Snorkeling on P&O Australia Cruise on 26th September 2023
What happened
On 26 September 2023, a male passenger died in a drowning incident during a snorkeling excursion ashore while the P&O Australia cruise ship was anchored off Aneityum (Mystery Island) in Vanuatu. Carnival Australia, the management company for P&O Australia, confirmed that the passenger's death resulted from what appears to be a medical situation that occurred while he was swimming.
The incident occurred as part of the 8-day Pacific Island Hopper cruise itinerary. The vessel was operating under normal port procedures at the time of the excursion.
Details of the incident
The drowning occurred during a scheduled snorkeling excursion ashore at Mystery Island on 26 September 2023. Carnival Australia indicated that the passenger experienced a medical situation while swimming, which resulted in the fatal outcome.
Casualties
Fatalities
- 1 male passenger died in the drowning incident.
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- Not applicable to this incident.
Current status
The cruise continued with its scheduled itinerary following the incident. Carnival Australia confirmed the circumstances of the passenger's death and indicated that a medical situation was the underlying cause.