Marella Explorer: British passenger falls overboard from Tui-operated cruise ship off Tenerife
Helicopters and a patrol boat have been used in the search for a passenger that fell overboard from the Marella Explorer
A search has been launched for a British passenger who fell overboard from a Tui-operated cruise ship off the Tenerife coast.
The 76-year-old man was reported missing from the adults-only vessel Marella Explorer 2 on Thursday morning.
The incident took place about 16.5 nautical miles north-west of Punta Teno in Tenerife’s west.
An alert was received by the local coastguard about 9.48am on Thursday.
Two helicopters, rescue boats and a search and rescue aircraft have been deployed as part of the search for the overboard passenger.
The 14-deck vessel had been headed to the Canaries from Madeira when the incident happened.
A statement from Tui’s Marella Cruises said: "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.
"Our dedicated care team is supporting the family, providing assistance and comfort. We are working closely with local authorities and will continue to offer every possible support."
Crew on board the Marella Explorer have also taken part in the search.
The cruise ship docked at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 2.40am local time on Friday.
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