Overview
- Suzanne Rees, 80, took part in a challenging hike on Lizard Island, became unwell in the heat, and was reportedly told to descend alone.
- Her absence was discovered about five hours after departure when she did not appear for dinner, prompting initial overboard searches before the ship returned overnight.
- A Nautilus Aviation helicopter located her body near the Cook’s Look trail the next day, with police describing the death as sudden and not suspicious.
- The Australian Maritime Safety Authority and Queensland Police have opened investigations into potential failures in passenger accounting and shore-excursion protocols.
- CEO Mark Fifield said the Coral Adventurer’s remaining itinerary is canceled with full refunds and chartered returns, and the company is cooperating as the family alleges negligence and seeks answers.