Search for Passenger Overboard from Cruise Ship Off Queensland Coast

A multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway for a male passenger reported overboard from the cruise ship Carnival Splendor in waters off the coast of Queensland. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and Queensland Police are coordinating the effort.

Timeline and Location of Incident

The incident occurred on the night of Friday, April 18, 2026. The Carnival Splendor was sailing from Moreton Island towards Sydney at the time.

• The passenger was reported missing by family members traveling with him around 2:00 AM on Saturday, April 19.
• The location was approximately 30 kilometers north-east of Moreton Island, or north-east of Cape Moreton.
• Vessel tracking data indicates the ship turned around following the incident.

Search and Rescue Operations

The search operation has involved multiple phases and agencies:

• AMSA-led Phase: Upon notification early Saturday morning, AMSA coordinated an intensive air and sea search. Assets deployed included two Challenger jets, five rescue helicopters, and six surface vessels. This phase was suspended on Saturday evening with the missing person not located.
• Police-led Phase: The Queensland Police Service resumed the search and rescue operation on Sunday, April 20.

The Carnival Splendor remained in the area to assist with the initial search, which delayed its scheduled arrival in Sydney.

Statements and Investigation

• A Carnival Cruise Line spokesperson stated that a review of onboard CCTV footage confirmed the passenger "climbed over the safety railing and jumped overboard."
• The company stated it is assisting authorities with the search and investigation. The ship's Care Team is supporting the passenger's family.
• AMSA confirmed it was notified by the cruise ship and tasked resources to the area.
• A passenger on board reported that the ship's captain informed guests of the incident within an hour of the initial alert.

Related Incident

In a separate incident earlier on Friday, a 67-year-old woman from Tasmania, also a passenger on the Carnival Splendor, died while snorkeling off Moreton Island. Authorities have stated the two incidents are not believed to be linked.

Ship Details and Schedule

The Carnival Splendor is a 290-meter cruise ship that operates in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. It has a capacity for over 3,000 passengers and 1,150 crew members.

Due to the search operation, the ship's arrival in Sydney was delayed from an expected 6:00 AM to approximately 6:00 PM on Sunday, April 20.