A 27-year-old Kenyan citizen, working as a Galley Steward aboard the Sun Princess, has been reported missing after going overboard in the Dardanelles Strait on August 20, 2025.
According to Princess Cruises, the MOB was detected through CCTV review, prompting the captain and officers to immediately launch emergency protocols. The ship coordinated closely with local maritime search and rescue authorities, deploying multiple boats to comb the waters for several hours.
Tragically, despite extensive efforts, the young crew member has not been located.
In an announcement to passengers, the captain said:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a crew member was reported to have gone overboard. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of our team member during this difficult time. The Princess Family Assistance team will be working with the crew member’s family to support them. We ask that you please join us in keeping his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”
Following the emergency, Sun Princess was directed to halt near Tekrag, Turkey, to allow authorities to board and investigate. This caused several changes:
• Arrival in Istanbul was delayed until the afternoon of August 21.
• The scheduled call to Mykonos on August 22 was canceled, with excursions refunded.
The captain acknowledged the disruption to guests’ plans but emphasized that “the safety and well-being of our guests and crew remains our highest priority.”
Princess Cruises confirmed that its Family Assistance Team is supporting the missing crew member’s relatives. Onboard, counselors have been made available to provide emotional care to both crew and guests during this painful period.
Our thoughts, prayers, and solidarity are with the 27-year-old Galley Steward from Kenya, his family, and his shipmates. Behind every uniform is a person with dreams, a family waiting, and a life that deserves recognition and respect.
