Major Search Operation Launched After Passenger Goes Overboard
A large-scale search and rescue mission is currently in progress after a tourist reportedly fell from a TUI-operated cruise ship sailing near the Canary Islands. The incident involves the adults-only vessel Marella Explorer 2, which triggered a ‘Man Overboard’ alert.
Spanish coastguards and police have been mobilised following the alarm, which was sounded on the morning of November 27, 2025. The ship was travelling from Madeira to the Canary Islands when the incident occurred.
Ship's Immediate Response and Search Details
Upon the alarm being raised, the captain of the 14-deck cruise liner swiftly slowed the vessel to a near-standstill and initiated official protocol procedures. These measures included a thorough review of onboard camera footage, the deployment of marker buoys to track ocean currents, and the execution of circular search patterns in the immediate vicinity.
Local reports from Tenerife's El Dia indicate the ship was approximately 16 nautical miles from Punta de Teno at the time of the incident. The Spanish coastguard, which has not yet issued an official statement, has deployed two of its specialist rescue vessels. The sea search is being supported from the air by an emergency helicopter.
In a show of maritime solidarity, a German-flagged yacht also responded to the distress call to assist in the search efforts.
Ongoing Operation and Passenger Details
As of now, the missing passenger has not been located. The operation remains active and open. Authorities have followed standard procedure for initial investigations by not yet releasing the identity, nationality, or the specific circumstances surrounding the fall.
The Marella Explorer 2 has since arrived in the Tenerife capital, Santa Cruz, early this morning. The ship had departed Tenerife on November 21 for a seven-day ‘Canarian Flavours’ tour, with scheduled stops in Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Madeira, and La Gomera.
Metro has contacted TUI for an update on the situation.
