Cruise Ship Leaves 80-Year-Old Woman Behind on Great Barrier Reef Island, Later Found Dead

An 80-year-old Australian woman died after being left behind on Lizard Island in the Great Barrier Reef by the luxury cruise ship Coral Adventurer during a 60-day voyage around Australia. The woman separated from her hiking group on the island and the ship departed at sunset without realizing she was missing, prompting a search operation involving helicopters and ground crews. The ship's captain notified the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), which has launched an investigation into the incident and plans to interview the crew upon the ship's arrival in Darwin. Queensland Police described the death as "sudden and non-suspicious," and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Coral Expeditions CEO Mark Fifield expressed condolences to the family, confirmed cooperation with authorities, and stated the company is providing full support to the relatives. Authorities are also probing whether the woman could have been saved and focusing on safety protocols related to passenger management during shore excursions.