The US Coast Guard is searching for a 77-year-old woman who fell off a Holland America cruise ship miles away from the shore of Cuba.
Officials said an unidentified woman fell off the Neiuw Statendam on Thursday about 40 miles northeast of the Sabana.
In a statement the Coast Guard said the Air Station Clearwater MH-60 helicopter crew and the crew of the Cutter William Trump are assisting in the search.
The ship was expected to make a seven-day journey throughout the Caribbean, returning on January 3, following its departure from Fort Lauderdale on Saturday.
In a Statement to the Daily Mail, Holland America was saddened to confirm that the guest went overboard.
The company said the captain and crew initiated search-and-rescue procedures and are searching the area, working closely with the US Coast Guard.
‘Our family assistance team is supporting the guest’s family, and our thoughts are with the guest’s loved ones during this difficult time,’ wrote Holland America.
The cruise line noted that the ship’s planned stop in Key West, Florida, on January 2 was cancelled as a result of the incident.
The Nieuw Statendam ship is 975 feet long and about 115 feet wide and can accommodate nearly 2,700 guests, according to the company’s website.
Holland America described the ship: ‘Fluid lines and dramatic spaces make the Holland America a modern beauty.’
‘The second in the line of our Pinnacle Class ships, her design draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. When not relaxing in well-appointed suites or staterooms, guests will have many innovative dining and entertainment options—from Rudi’s Sel de Mer to Canaletto to the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and the visually stunning two-level World Stage.’
An example trip offered by the company aboard the ship is a seven-day Caribbean excursion for about $600.
The company has been in business for over 150 years and serves over 300 ports across all seven continents.
A 70-year-old woman went overboard and died on a Holland America ship in November 2019 while sailing in the South Pacific, according to USA Today.
The unnamed 70-year-old passenger fell into the water and was rescued quickly, the company said in a statement to the outlet.
However, she lost consciousness and could not be revived by the ship’s medical staff.
