Overview
- Suzanne Rees, 80, became separated during a hike on the voyage’s first shore stop; the ship left the island, returned hours later, and her body was found the next day.
- The Australian Maritime Safety Authority and Queensland Police opened investigations into whether the passenger was properly accounted for.
- AMSA barred new passengers from boarding while the inquiry proceeds, and officials plan to attend the vessel on its return to Cairns.
- Coral Expeditions CEO Mark Fifield canceled the remainder of the 60‑day voyage, citing the death and prior mechanical issues, and promised full refunds.
- Rees’s daughter criticized the crew’s vigilance, while reports differ on her nationality and the cause of death remains unconfirmed, with one outlet suggesting a fall.