A British passenger is missing after falling overboard from a cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife.
A search is under way for the 76-year-old man who was reported missing from the Marella Explorer 2 on Thursday morning.
Coast guards told Sky News they received an alert yesterday at 9.48am local time from the cruise ship, which was located 16.5 nautical miles northwest of Punta Teno, Tenerife.
Helicopters and patrol boats are taking part in the search.
A statement from 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 boat was crossing between Funchal in Madeira and San Sebastian de La Gomera in Spain’s Canary Islands, according to news website Voz Populi.
The incident forced the captain to immediately activate the international “man overboard” protocol, which includes checking cameras, launching marker rafts and search manoeuvres, according to the website.
The Marella Explorer 2, which is operated by TUI and also took part in the search, docked at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 2.40am local time.
Sky News has contacted the Foreign Office for comment.
