A dream holiday to Australia's Great Barrier Reef ended in tragedy when a British grandmother collapsed and died during a snorkelling excursion from a luxury cruise ship.
Suzanne Rees, 71, from Cornwall, was participating in an activity off Lizard Island while travelling aboard the Coral Adventurer cruise ship when the incident occurred on Wednesday.
Emergency Response on Paradise Island
The popular cruise excursion turned to crisis when Mrs Rees experienced a medical emergency while in the water. Fellow passengers and crew members rushed to her aid, pulling her from the sea and administering CPR on the beach.
Despite their desperate efforts and the arrival of emergency medical teams, the grandmother could not be revived. Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed they attended the incident but were unable to save her.
A Dream Holiday Turns to Tragedy
Mrs Rees was travelling with her husband on what should have been the trip of a lifetime. The couple were passengers aboard the Coral Adventurer, operated by Australian cruise company Coral Expeditions, known for its luxury expeditions to remote destinations.
Lizard Island, located about 150 miles north of Cairns, is renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and is a popular stop for cruise ships exploring the northern Great Barrier Reef.
Investigation and Industry Response
Australian authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is working with Queensland police to determine what exactly occurred.
A spokesperson for Coral Expeditions expressed deep sadness over the incident, stating: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of a guest following a medical emergency during a shore excursion at Lizard Island. Our heartfelt sympathies are with the guest's family and loved ones."
The company has offered counselling services to other passengers affected by the traumatic event and is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Safety Questions in Remote Locations
This tragic incident raises important questions about medical emergency response capabilities during shore excursions in remote locations. While cruise ships typically have medical facilities onboard, accessing immediate care during island stops presents additional challenges.
The tourism industry will be watching closely as investigators examine whether all proper safety protocols were followed and if any lessons can be learned to prevent similar tragedies in future.
Mrs Rees's family has been notified and is receiving consular assistance from British authorities as they make arrangements to repatriate her body.
