Rescue Mission Launched after 20-Year-Old Jumps off Cruise Ship in Front of Family

A young man, reportedly aged 20, is said to have jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, prompting a search and rescue operation. The incident occurred on Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas as it was navigating between Cuba and the Bahamas' Grand Inagua Island at approximately 4:00 am on Thursday, April 4.

Following the incident, the cruise line swiftly initiated a search and rescue endeavor, with passengers providing accounts of the unfolding events. According to Bryan Sims, a fellow passenger who was present during the incident, he had been socializing with the young man and his brother in a hot tub until around 3:30 am. Sims described the atmosphere as crowded, and he noted that the young passenger appeared to be inebriated. Sims recounted the moment when, as they were heading back to the elevators, the young man's father admonished him for his state, to which the young man responded by jumping out of a window in front of them.

Deborah Morrison, another passenger, mentioned that the crew promptly responded to the commotion caused by the incident. Additionally, a passenger shared their experience on the Cruise Critic Community page, recounting hearing distress signals in the early hours and later learning of the search efforts underway. They conveyed that the ship's captain informed passengers about the situation and the involvement of the Coast Guard in the search operation.

Passengers expressed sympathy and support for the young man and his family, describing their reactions as horrified and distraught. Royal Caribbean's spokesperson confirmed the launch of the search and rescue effort in collaboration with the US Coast Guard. They also acknowledged the outpouring of assistance and concern from guests onboard the ship.

As the search continues, with efforts concentrated in the waters around Cuba, the US Coast Guard confirmed that the mission remains ongoing. The cruise line's Care Team is extending support to the family during this challenging period, while respecting their privacy.

Efforts to obtain further details from Royal Caribbean and the Coast Guard are underway.