Cruise Ship Passenger Dies While Jet Skiing in the Bahamas: Police

Cruise Ship Passenger Dies While Jet Skiing in the Bahamas: Police https://ift.tt/K4aO5MH

Holland America Line confirmed to PEOPLE that the victim was a guest on its cruise ship

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A Holland America Line cruise ship anchored off Bahia de la Paz in 2021

A 73-year-old British-Czechoslovakia national who was a passenger on a cruise ship died in what authorities have described as an accident involving a jet ski in the Bahamas. 

The Royal Bahamas Police Force said in a news release that the incident took place on Saturday, March 22, in Half Moon Cay. 

Authorities on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas were alerted shortly after 1 p.m. local time about the incident by the island manager. 

“Upon [their] arrival,” read the Royal Bahamas Police Force statement, “officers conducted their initial investigation which revealed that the female who was a passenger on a cruise line was riding a Jet ski when she allegedly lost control and collided with a rock resulting in the accident.”

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Despite receiving medical assistance, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene by a local doctor, the police force added. 

In an email to PEOPLE on Monday, March 24, the Royal Bahamas Police Force said there are no new updates and the investigation is ongoing. 

The victim, who was not identified by authorities, was a passenger on a Holland America Line cruise ship, the company confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE. 

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“Holland America Line regrets to confirm that a passenger onboard Nieuw Amsterdam passed away following a tragic incident on a personal watercraft,” read the statement. “The guest, a 73-year-old woman, died on March 22 while the ship was calling at Half Moon Cay, The Bahamas.”

“We are in contact with the guest’s family and doing everything we can to support them during this difficult time,” Holland America Line continued. “The accident is currently being investigated by the Bahamian authorities. Out of respect for the family and guest, we do not have further information to share.”

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According to Holland America Line’s website, Half Moon Cay is described as a crescent-shaped private island that boasts “white-sand beaches, a turquoise lagoon and untouched nature. Renowned for its beauty and amenities, it's a highlight for Holland America guests seeking tranquility or adventure.” 

Among the activities offered at Half Moon Cay for guests include snorkeling and kayaking and nature walks, added the company.