Search for British man who fell from TUI Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship off Tenerife coast

A search has been launched for a 76-year-old British man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife.

The Marella Explorer 2 was travelling to La Gomera, situated to the west of the largest of the Canary islands, on Thursday morning when the incident was reported.

The cruise ship, operated by Tui, is currently docked at Santa Cruz in Tenerife as searches remain ongoing on Friday morning.

“The CCS Tenerife maintains coordination under the Maritime Captaincy Management, in collaboration with Civil Guard,” Salvamento Maritimo, the Spanish coastguard, said in a statement on Friday.

A spokesperson for Marella Cruises said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water while the ship was on passage to La Gomera.

“Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time. Our dedicated care team is supporting the family, providing assistance and comfort.

“We are working closely with local authorities and will continue to offer every possible support.”

The Foreign Office has been contacted for comment.