A cruise was a nightmare for people aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas when a young man jumped overboard shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday.
The 18-story ship was sailing off the coast of Cuba when the as-yet-unidentified man jumped off one in all the decks.
Based on onlookers, his father and brother watched helplessly as he leaped over the side.
“There was loads of yelling, and the crew was alerted immediately,” passenger Deborah Morrison told The Post. “His family was horrified. Just beside themselves. I can’t even begin to assume what they’re going through.”
In an announcement to The Post, Royal Caribbean said its crew immediately sprang into motion following the incident.
“The ship’s crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the US Coast Guard, who has taken over the search,” the statement reads. “Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest’s family during this difficult time. For the privacy of the guest and their family, we’ve got no additional details to share.”
News of the apparent suicide attempt quickly spread among the many guests — and lots of of them tried to assist in any way they might.
“The early morning was definitely somber as so many individuals got here out of their cabins to stare at the ocean, hoping to have the opportunity to help find the person,” said Amy Phelps Fouse, a passenger on the ship.
“Royal Caribbean has been excellent at communicating updates throughout the day,” Fouse continued. “They’ve asked that folks act with compassion in light of the tragic situation.”
Overboard incidents on cruise ships are rare.
Based on the Washington Post, about 386 people were reported to have gone overboard on the key cruise lines between 2000 to 2020.
The incidents, whether accidental or intentional, are sometimes deadly.
Previously few years, most cruise lines have enacted onboard safety measures and surveillance systems to assist reduce the chance of overboard deaths.
The Coast Guard confirmed to The Post it continues to be conducting a search and rescue operation within the waters off Cuba. The person has not yet been found.