A Cairns-based cruise ship, the Coral Adventurer, has run aground off the coast of Papua New Guinea with more than 120 people on board. The incident occurred early Saturday morning approximately 90 kilometers from Lae, the second-largest city in PNG's Morobe Province.
The vessel's operator, Coral Expeditions, confirmed that all 80 passengers and 43 crew members are safe and uninjured. A spokesperson stated that the incident has been reported to authorities and will undergo official inspections of the hull and marine environment as standard procedure.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) said it did not receive a distress call but is monitoring the situation and ready to support PNG authorities if requested. PNG's national broadcaster reported that the ship grounded en route to Madang Province and the Sepik River after encountering strong sea currents. Authorities will inspect for damage to coral reefs at Dregerhafen Point.
The grounding comes two months after the death of 80-year-old passenger Suzanne Rees on Lizard Island, which is under investigation. AMSA officers boarded the ship in October to investigate her death. Rees was found dead on the island after starting a hike and turning back unaccompanied. Coral Expeditions later canceled a 60-day voyage following her death and mechanical issues.
