Urgent search underway after British tourist, 76, falls overboard from cruise ship near Canary Islands

An emergency search was launched after a British passenger fell into the sea from a cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife.

The 76-year-old man was reported missing from the Marella Explorer 2 on Thursday morning.

A Marella Cruises spokesperson said Independent: “We are deeply saddened that a guest was seen entering the water while the ship was en route to La Gomera. Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time.

“Our dedicated care team supports the family, providing assistance and comfort. We are working closely with local authorities and will continue to offer every support possible.”

The Spanish coast guard was first alerted to the incident at 9:48 a.m., when the ship was 16.5 miles northwest of Punta Teno.

A sea and air operation was launched, in which a helicopter, two search ships and an aircraft participated in the search.

Search efforts were resumed this morning with the participation of the Rio Guadiato patrol boat from La Palma.

Marella Explorer 2, which participated in the first emergency call, approached the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 02.40 local time.

This is a breaking story, more to come…