Coral Adventurer resumes sailing as investigations continue into death of passenger

• Two months after the tragic death of Susanne Rees, Coral Adventurer has resumed sailing.
• Investigations are still ongoing into how she could have been left behind on Lizard Island.
• Coral Expeditions has responded, saying it has cooperated in investigations.

Coral Expeditions’ Coral Adventurer has resumed sailing after the death of one of its guests on a shore excursion earlier this year.

Suzanne Rees, an 80-year-old guest joined a hiking tour to Cook’s Look summit on Lizard Island as part of her Coral Expeditions cruise. Temperatures were reportedly as high as 50 degrees as the group was hiking.

According to her daughter, Rees felt unwell and was allegedly told to return using the trail and wait.

According to reports, the ship allegedly left Lizard Island without realising that Rees hadn’t returned.

A significant investigation has been launched by Queensland Police, WorkSafe Queensland and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. 

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has told Cruise Passenger that the investigation is ongoing. 

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Investigation goes on

AMSA told Cruise Passenger: “We are not providing further comments or details on this incident.”

However, Coral Adventurer has left Cairns on a 12-night sailing to Papua New Guinea.

Cruise Passenger contacted Coral Expeditions for comment and Ports North confirmed the departure.

“Coral Adventurer is operational and has today embarked on a cruising schedule across the South Pacific. Coral employees assisted in three investigations, and while the organisation does not comment on crew schedules, we have assisted our people throughout this process and in their return to duties.”

Investigations are still ongoing, at least by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, and the ship is sailing and will seemingly complete its itineraries as planned.

Coral Expeditions posted on social media this week:

“This year has been filled with unforgettable journeys, stunning landscapes and moments of wonder. It would not have been possible without you. Your curiosity, passion and eagerness to explore the world inspire us every day.

“They encourage us to discover remote corners that can only be reached by small ship and to provide intimate, authentic local experiences that stay with you long after the voyage ends.

“We are deeply grateful to every guest who joined us on these adventures. Your spirit of discovery, your openness to new cultures and your shared joy made every expedition truly special. Together, we have created memories, forged connections and experienced the world in ways that remind us why we explore.

“As we look forward to 2026, we are excited to welcome you aboard again. We will look forward to sharing more remarkable journeys, hidden treasures and meaningful experiences.”

For more see here.