Search Underway for British Passenger Who Fell Overboard From Marella Explorer 2 Near Tenerife

A search operation is underway off northwest Tenerife after a 76-year-old British man fell overboard from the cruise ship Marella Explorer 2, according to Spain’s maritime rescue agency, Salvamento Marítimo.

Authorities were alerted on Thursday morning that the passenger had entered the water while the vessel was sailing toward La Gomera. The agency confirmed on Friday that rescue teams have been searching the surrounding waters since the incident was reported.

The operation is being coordinated by CCS Tenerife, under the direction of the Maritime Captaincy and in collaboration with the Civil Guard, Salvamento Marítimo said.

The Marella Explorer 2, operated by TUI and featuring 907 cabins, continued to work closely with local authorities following the incident. In a statement, Marella Cruises said they were “deeply saddened” to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water.

According to ShipAtlas AIS data the incident appared to have happened between La Palma and Tenerife just north of the reported destination of La Gomera. The ship detoured after the incident and is not docked in Santa Cruz, Tenerife.

“Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time,” the company said, adding that its dedicated care team is supporting the passenger’s family.

The search remains ongoing.

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