Full Breakdown
Search Underway for Missing British Passenger from Marella Explorer 2
11/28/2025, 8:27:57 PM
Incident Overview
A 76-year-old British man is missing after reportedly falling overboard from the Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, November 27, while the vessel was approximately 16.5 nautical miles northwest of Punta Teno, Tenerife. The Spanish coastguard received an alert at 9:48 AM local time, prompting an immediate search operation involving helicopters and patrol boats.
Search and Rescue Operations
Following the "man overboard" alert, the ship's captain activated emergency protocols, which included reviewing surveillance footage, deploying marker buoys, and conducting circular search maneuvers. The Marella Explorer 2, operated by TUI's Marella Cruises, was en route to La Gomera from Madeira at the time of the incident. After the alert, the ship remained stationary until the coastguard took over coordination of the search efforts. The search was temporarily suspended due to darkness but resumed early on Friday morning with additional maritime resources, including the Río Guadiato patrol vessel and specialized aircraft.
Passenger Accounts
Lesley-Anne Kelly, a passenger on the ship, recounted the moment the alarm sounded while she was having breakfast. She noted that the announcement of "man overboard" was followed by a somber atmosphere as crew members mobilized to search the waters. Kelly expressed her belief that multiple witnesses likely saw the incident unfold, given the time of day and the number of passengers present.
Official Statements
Marella Cruises expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water while the ship was on passage to La Gomera. Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time." The cruise line confirmed that its care team is supporting the family and working closely with local authorities to provide assistance.
Criticism & Opposition
While the search efforts have been extensive, some passengers have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the emergency protocols and the speed of the response. Witnesses have indicated that the incident occurred in broad daylight when many passengers were active on deck, suggesting that the situation could have been managed differently.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports regarding the circumstances surrounding the man's fall remain unclear. While Marella Cruises confirmed that he was seen entering the water, further details about the incident and the passenger's identity have not been disclosed. The Spanish coastguard continues to search the area, but no updates on the missing man's condition have been provided.
What's Next
The search operation is ongoing, with authorities committed to locating the missing passenger. The Marella Explorer 2 docked at Santa Cruz de Tenerife early Friday morning after participating in the search efforts. The UK Foreign Office has stated that it is prepared to assist British nationals abroad but has not yet been contacted regarding this incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water while the ship was on passage to La Gomera.” — Marella Cruises
- “It was pretty sombre last night, especially after the announcement that they were standing down the search,” — Lesley-Anne Kelly, Passenger
The search for the missing British tourist continues as authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome.
