The search for a crew member reported overboard from Norwegian Viva has been formally suspended, according to confirmation issued by NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line.
The individual, identified as Vinshar, a 38-year-old chef from Kozhikode, was reported missing on April 9th while the vessel was sailing in the vicinity of Costa Maya during a 7-night Western Caribbean voyage originating from Galveston TX.
Following the report, the vessel initiated a man overboard procedure, reversing course to conduct search operations while notifying the Mexican Rescue Coordination Centre. The ship remained in the area for approximately two hours assisting in the search before being released by authorities to continue its itinerary. Additional efforts involving local authorities and nearby vessels were carried out in accordance with maritime protocols; however, no trace of the individual was located, and the search was suspended on April 11th.
Information derived from onboard accounts indicates that the crew member had been assigned to galley duties and was last observed near Deck 8, in the vicinity of his work area.
Surveillance review reportedly showed him at the ship’s railing during the afternoon, approximately two hours after departure from Costa Maya. Concerns were raised when he failed to report for duty later in the day, prompting a full onboard search, after which video evidence confirmed the overboard incident.
The circumstances surrounding the case remain under investigation, and no official determination has been made regarding the sequence of events leading to the incident.
NCL indicated that the crew's family had been informed, while emphasizing that established procedures had been followed in coordinating the search and response.
Norwegian Viva subsequently completed the voyage as scheduled, reflecting standard operational practice once search responsibilities are transferred to the relevant maritime authorities.
For more Norwegian Viva incidents and accidents, see the ship's CruiseMinus page