Australian authorities have launched an investigation into the death of an 80-year-old female passenger who was found deceased on Lizard Island (Australia), following a shore excursion from Coral Adventurer, a vessel operated by Coral Expeditions.
The incident occurred on October 25th during the ship’s call to the remote island, situated approximately 320 km/200 mi north of Cairns, Queensland.
The woman had reportedly joined a guided hike tour to Cook’s Look, the island’s highest point. During the ascent, she informed the group that she was unable to continue and would return to the vessel alone. Witnesses later observed Coral Adventurer departing from the island, unaware that she had not reboarded. An onboard search effort was launched that evening after the discrepancy was discovered, and her body was recovered the following day.
The matter has since been referred to the Queensland Coroners Court.
Experts have highlighted that the incident raises questions about supervision and passenger-tracking procedures during shore-based activities. Dr Adam Smith, a marine scientist and adjunct professor at James Cook University who has previously served as a guest lecturer with Coral Expeditions, noted that while onboard and water-based operations typically include mandatory headcounts and direct oversight, land excursions often rely on individual compliance with guidelines. He suggested that structured measures, such as buddy systems and formal checklists, could help reduce risks in similar situations.
Under existing Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) regulations, commercial passenger vessels are required to maintain systems ensuring that masters/captains can account for every passenger at any given time.
An AMSA spokesperson confirmed that the agency is investigating whether these procedures were properly implemented and will take appropriate action should non-compliance be identified.
Gareth Phillips, CEO of the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, emphasised that industry operators are legally bound to uphold rigorous safety management systems and passenger verification processes for both in-water and onshore excursions. He described Coral Expeditions as a long-established operator with a strong safety record and stated that the industry remains committed to maintaining the highest possible safety standards.
Coral Adventurer is one of three expedition ships operated by the Cairns-based company, with fleetmates Coral Geographer and Coral Discoverer. At the time of the incident, the ship was undertaking the first leg of a 60-day circumnavigation of Australia.
Mark Fifield, Coral Expeditions’ CEO, confirmed that inquiries were ongoing and that the company was cooperating fully with investigators while extending support to the passenger’s family.
AMSA has indicated that it intends to board the vessel and conduct further inquiries when it arrives in Darwin.
For more Coral Adventurer incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.