How Many Cruise Ships Have Gone Missing?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ships are a popular way to travel and explore the world’s oceans. However, there have been instances where cruise ships have gone missing, leaving many people wondering how often this occurs.

While it’s impossible to determine an exact number of how many cruise ships have gone missing, there have been several high-profile cases over the years.

One of the most famous incidents occurred in 1962 when the SS Marine Sulphur Queen disappeared with its crew of 39. The ship was carrying molten sulphur from Texas to Virginia when it vanished without a trace. Despite an extensive search effort, no wreckage or debris was ever found.

Another well-known case involved the Oceanos, which sank off the coast of South Africa in 1991. The ship was carrying over 500 passengers and crew members when it began taking on water during a storm. Fortunately, all passengers and crew were rescued before the ship sank.

More recently, in 2018, a Chinese woman went missing from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship while it was sailing in international waters near Japan. Despite an extensive search by both Japanese and Chinese authorities, she was never found.

It’s important to note that while these incidents are certainly concerning, they are relatively rare occurrences. Millions of people take cruises every year without incident.

However, if you’re planning on taking a cruise anytime soon, it’s always wise to take precautions and make sure you’re aware of safety protocols onboard. This can include attending safety briefings at the beginning of your trip and familiarizing yourself with emergency exits and procedures.

In conclusion, although we may never know exactly how many cruise ships have gone missing throughout history, there have been several notable incidents over the years. While these occurrences are rare, it’s always important to prioritize safety when traveling on any mode of transportation – including cruises.