A major search and rescue operation was launched after an unidentified crew member fell overboard from the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship off the coast of Massachusetts early Sunday morning. The incident occurred at 1:15 a.m., about 12 miles from Cape Cod, as the vessel was returning to Boston from a seven-day Bermuda cruise.
Man Overboard Alert
Security footage captured the crew member plunging into the freezing Atlantic waters, prompting an immediate man overboard announcement on board and lifeboat deployment. Passengers described the ordeal as “terrifying” as emergency crews scrambled to mount a rescue.
Coast Guard Response
The US Coast Guard coordinated the search, deploying multiple helicopters, including units from Southeastern New England and Coast Guard Station Provincetown. Despite extensive efforts throughout the morning and afternoon, the crew member has not yet been located.
Ships Delayed Arrival
Norwegian Breakaway docked at Boston’s Black Falcon Terminal just before noon Sunday, later than planned due to the ongoing search and rescue mission. Passengers received a letter from the operator explaining the delay and emphasising safety as the priority.
Ongoing Investigation
The identity of the missing crew member has not been released, and the Coast Guard has suspended the search for the time being pending new information. Investigations remain ongoing to understand the circumstances of the fall.