Tragic death on NCL ship

Various news and social media sites were reporting late Monday afternoon of a drowning of a child and the near drowning of another on board the NCL Breakaway, which sailed from New York yesterday heading towards Bermuda. Reports were coming via the social media accounts of fellow passengers pool side with the distraught family members.

Norwegian Cruise Line have since released a public statement Monday evening, confirming the earlier reports:

“We are extremely saddened to report that a tragedy occurred on board Norwegian Breakaway this morning. Our emergency medical team was called and notified that two small children were rescued from the adult pool, but were unresponsive on the pool deck. The team responded immediately and quickly administered CPR to both children. The older child was then airlifted by the U.S. Coastguard to the closest medical facility, accompanied by his grandmother and a nurse from the ship. Devastatingly, after many resuscitation attempts, the younger child passed away on board. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family during this extremely difficult time and are providing full assistance and support. The family is in our thoughts and prayers and we ask that you please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as well.”

This tragedy comes hot on the heels of the drowning of a 6 year old on board the Carnival Victory late last year. No doubt this new event will start the storms brewing again around whether or not life guards should be present on board all cruise ships, especially around the children’s pool and fun zone areas.

I would hate to think the reasons behind not appointing life guards were financial – what price can be put on the life of a child or anyone for that matter.

Our thoughts are with the family at this sad time and all the bickering and arguments for and against lifeguards can be left for another day.