Missing person Americas Cozumel · 17 February 2025
Radiance of the Seas Missing Passenger 2025: Search Underway for American Cruiser in Cozumel
What happened
On 17 February 2025, Tynisha Williams, a 30-year-old American passenger, disembarked from Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas during the vessel's scheduled port call in Cozumel, Mexico. She failed to return before the ship's departure, and Mexican authorities launched a search operation after the cruise line reported her absence. The incident was not formally publicised until 25 February 2025—eight days after her disappearance—when the Harbor Master's Office issued a Nautical Notice.
Mexican law enforcement and maritime agencies are collaborating to locate Williams, focusing on surveillance footage from Cozumel's port and surrounding areas. The delayed public alert has drawn criticism from safety advocates and locals, who argue that the eight-day lag may have compromised search effectiveness.
Details of the incident
Williams disembarked from Radiance of the Seas on 17 February 2025 during the vessel's scheduled stop in Cozumel. She did not return to the ship before departure, prompting Royal Caribbean to notify Mexican authorities of her absence. The Harbor Master's Office did not issue a formal Nautical Notice until 25 February 2025—eight days later. The notice, signed by Radiance of the Seas Captain Victor Manuel Lozano Jerezano, urged anyone with information about Williams' whereabouts to come forward. Details about her travel companions, participation in guided tours, or circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain undisclosed.
Passengers and crew
Missing passenger
- Tynisha Williams, 30 years old, U.S. citizen
Casualties
Fatalities
- None reported.
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- Not applicable; passenger missing.
Emergency response
Mexican authorities launched a search operation following Royal Caribbean's report of Williams' absence. Local law enforcement and maritime agencies are collaborating to trace her movements, with focus on surveillance footage from Cozumel's port and surrounding areas. The specifics of personnel and resources deployed remain unclear. The delayed issuance of the Nautical Notice has sparked debate about accountability and transparency in reporting missing persons at sea.
Current status
Tynisha Williams remains missing. Mexican authorities continue search efforts in Cozumel. This case marks the second disappearance of a cruise passenger in Cozumel in recent years, reviving concerns about tourist safety in the popular Caribbean destination. Royal Caribbean has not disclosed additional details about onboard protocols for tracking passengers during port calls.
Contact and Assistance
- U.S. Embassy Mexico (Consular Assistance): +52 55 8526 8000
- Royal Caribbean International: 1-866-562-7625
- Mexican Harbor Master's Office (Cozumel): Information available through local maritime authorities