The U.S. Coast Guard is currently engaged in a search operation for a 77-year-old woman who reportedly went overboard from the cruise liner Nieuw Statendam near Cuba. The incident occurred approximately 40 miles northeast of Sabana, Cuba, an area approximately 193 miles east of Havana, as reported by NBC Miami.
According to an announcement from the Coast Guard captured by WPBF, the search involves both sea and air assets, including the Coast Guard boat Cutter William Trump, and Air Station Clearwater, who are conducting the operation. The Nieuw Statendam, belonging to the Holland America Line, measures 975 feet in length and hosts up to 2,692 guests.
Holland America Line responded to the situation with a public statement confirming the overboard incident. "We are deeply saddened to confirm that while sailing in waters north of Cuba, a guest on Nieuw Statendam went overboard earlier today," the company stated this afternoon. "The captain and crew initiated search and rescue procedures and are searching the area working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard which has deployed a cutter and helicopter to assist. Our family assistance team is supporting the guest’s family, and our thoughts are with the guest’s loved ones during this difficult time," according to a statement obtained by WPBF.
In the wake of the ongoing search efforts, the Holland America Line has canceled the ship's planned stop in Key West tomorrow. The Nieuw Statendam embarked from Fort Lauderdale last Saturday on a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise. The search for the missing woman continues, reflecting a cooperative effort between the cruise line and the Coast Guard resources in the vicinity, as the concerned family receives support from the cruise company's internal team.
