Coast Guard Initiates Search for Passenger Overboard from Holland America Vessel
Havana, Thursday, 1 January 2026.
The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a 77-year-old passenger near Cuba. Holland America states security footage indicates the fall from the Nieuw Statendam was likely intentional.
Search Operation Launched in Caribbean Waters
A search and rescue operation is currently underway for a 77-year-old female passenger who went overboard from the Nieuw Statendam, a cruise ship operated by Holland America Line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation (CCL) [1][2][GPT]. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, January 1, 2026, while the vessel was transiting waters approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers) northeast of Sabana, Cuba [1][3][5]. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has deployed significant assets to the region, including the Cutter William Trump and an MH-60 helicopter crew from Air Station Clearwater to locate the missing passenger [1][2][4].
Surveillance Evidence Points to Intent
Holland America Line has issued a statement addressing the circumstances of the event. A review of the vessel’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage reportedly shows the passenger alone on the third deck at the time of the incident, appearing to go overboard intentionally [3][6]. The cruise line expressed its condolences, confirming that its family assistance team is providing support to the guest’s family during this difficult time [1][5]. Following the incident, the ship abruptly reversed its course around 5:00 a.m. to conduct a search pattern along its previous track [6].
Operational Impact and Vessel Specifications
The Nieuw Statendam departed Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, for a seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary [1][4][5]. Due to the ongoing search and rescue mission, the scheduled port call in Key West, Florida, for Friday, January 2, has been canceled to allow the vessel to remain in the search area [1][5]. The ship is expected to return to Fort Lauderdale on Saturday, January 3 [5][6]. The vessel, a significant asset in the fleet, has a gross tonnage of 99,863, measures 975 feet (297 meters) in length, and has a passenger capacity of approximately 2,700 guests [3][4][5].
Analytical Summary
This incident highlights the rigorous emergency protocols embedded within the maritime leisure industry. The immediate coordination between the Nieuw Statendam crew and the U.S. Coast Guard, utilizing both surface and air assets, demonstrates the prioritization of passenger safety over commercial schedules. As the investigation proceeds, the focus remains on the search efforts in the waters north of Cuba.