Crew Member Dies After Going Overboard from Regal Princess
A crew member aboard the Regal Princess cruise ship died after going overboard near Cancun, Mexico, on Monday, July 14, 2026. The incident occurred just before 6 a.m. local time, prompting a major search and rescue operation by the ship, another cruise vessel, and Mexican maritime authorities.
The Regal Princess had departed from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades on Saturday for a seven-day cruise and was heading to Cozumel, Mexico. The identity of the deceased crew member has not been released.
Search Operation Lasted Over Eight Hours
Passenger David Jimenez told CBS News Miami that the ship immediately began searching the area, slowing down and circling repeatedly. "At times the ship slowed down and went in circles. Then they would come back and circle again," he said. "But after searching intensely for over eight hours, the cruise line confirmed the crew member had perished."
Jimenez added that passengers were not told the crew member's identity. "No details were given. We don't know who he is," he said. The captain provided hourly updates during the search, and grief counseling services were offered to guests and crew.
Princess Cruises Expresses Condolences
Princess Cruises issued a statement: "Our heartfelt condolences go out to the crew’s family and friends during this difficult time. Grief support services are being offered to guests and crew members affected by this event."
Passenger Pam Holland Boyd wrote on Facebook: "FINAL UPDATE - the Captain just announced, after 7+/- hours of extensive searching by several ships & other authorities, he confirmed the passing of the crew member. He asked for prayers for the family. Regal Princess is also offering counseling services to anyone who feels they need to talk to someone about this loss of life. Cozumel has been added back as a port, coming back on the 16th."
The Regal Princess has resumed its journey, with its next scheduled stop in Belize.
