Authorities have suspended their search for a man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Queensland, after the search entered its third day.
The man, aged in his 70s, was reported overboard in the waters north-east of Cape Morton while travelling on a Carnival Splendor cruise ship about 10.30pm last Friday.
A multi-agency search operation – involving water police, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Queensland Government Air, Surf Life Saving Queensland Helicopters, Marine Rescue Bribie and Gold Coast, the Redcliffe Coast Guard, the cruise line and a number of merchant ships, commercial aviation and marine vessels – commenced and lasted three days.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, Queensland Police confirmed the search had been suspended.
“The Queensland Police Service acknowledges the contribution of other services and volunteers in the search,” a spokesperson said.
“Officers continue to be in contact with the man’s family who have been advised of this update.
“The suspension of the search is subject to additional information or intelligence being received regarding the man’s disappearance.”
NewsWire has contacted Carnival Splendor for comment.
In an earlier statement, a spokesman said: “All appropriate authorities have been alerted and Carnival will assist authorities in their investigation upon the ship’s return to Sydney,” a spokesman said.
“Carnival’s Care Team is supporting the guest’s family and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved one.”
