A luxury 60-day cruise around Australia has been abruptly cancelled following the tragic death of an elderly passenger who was left behind on Lizard Island.
The passenger, 80-year-old Suzanne Rees, had joined a hiking excursion with fellow travelers from the Coral Adventurer, a vessel operated by Coral Expeditions. During the hike, Rees reportedly stopped to rest and became separated from the group. The ship departed without realizing she was missing and only returned hours later once the crew discovered her absence.
A large-scale search operation was launched, involving the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Queensland Police, and local rescue teams. Sadly, Rees’ body was found the following day.
In a statement, Mark Fifield, CEO of Coral Expeditions, expressed his condolences to the family and confirmed that the remainder of the voyage had been cancelled due to “the tragic passing of Suzanne Rees and previous mechanical issues.” Passengers have been promised full refunds, and arrangements are being made for their return journeys via chartered flights.
AMSA announced that it has issued a notice to the ship’s master, prohibiting any new passengers from boarding until investigations are complete. Officials are expected to meet the vessel in Cairns upon its return.
Rees’ daughter, Katherine Rees, voiced her family’s grief and anger, saying they were “shocked and saddened that the Coral Adventurer left Lizard Island after an organised excursion without my mum.” She described her mother as an “active 80-year-old” and a passionate bushwalker, adding that the family hopes the coroner’s inquiry will determine what the company could have done to prevent the tragedy.
Police believe extreme heat may have contributed to Rees falling ill during the climb. The investigation continues as questions mount over the cruise operator’s safety protocols and duty of care.
