Elderly Passenger Abandoned by Norwegian Cruise Line, Saved by Fellow Travelers

An 80-year-old woman left behind on an African island by Norwegian Cruise Line was rescued by American tourists after suffering a medical emergency.

Norwegian Cruise Line forced an 80-year-old woman to disembark in São Tomé following a stroke, without contacting her emergency contacts or providing adequate care.
Two days later, eight passengers, including the woman, were stranded on the island after their tour ran late and were denied reboarding by the ship's captain.
American tourists, including a South Carolina couple, took it upon themselves to care for the elderly woman, covering her medical and living expenses until she could be flown home.
The cruise line's handling of the situation has drawn criticism for their lack of support and communication with the stranded passengers and the woman's family.
Travel experts advise cruise passengers to take precautions to avoid being left behind, including booking excursions through the cruise line and carrying necessary identification and contact information.