Tragedy on Lizard Island: Cruise Passenger Found Dead after Being Left Behind

An 80-year-old passenger was discovered dead on a Great Barrier Reef island after her cruise liner inadvertently abandoned her. The tragic incident has raised questions about safety protocols within the Australian cruise industry.

Suzanne Rees, from Sydney, was last seen during a hiking excursion on Lizard Island. It was during the second day of her cruise around Australia. The ship reportedly left five hours before realizing she was missing, leading to a search that unfortunately ended with the discovery of her body.

Her daughter, Katherine Rees, criticized the cruise company, Coral Expeditions, citing a lack of care and common sense. Authorities are currently investigating the incident, with Australian maritime and workplace safety bodies involved. This incident has brought to mind the unaccounted-for disappearance of a couple in 1998, triggering renewed scrutiny of the region's tourism safety measures.