An 80-year-old woman, Suzanne Rees, died while on a cruise trip to Lizard Island, located 240 kilometers north of Cairns. Her family is seeking answers regarding the circumstances of her death, which occurred shortly after the cruise began. Just a week prior, Rees was enjoying life, participating in activities like gardening and bushwalking.

The tragedy unfolded on October 24, when the Coral Adventurer cruise ship departed Cairns. The ship, which can accommodate 120 guests, arrived at Lizard Island the following morning. Known for its secluded beaches and luxury resort, Lizard Island offers various activities, including snorkeling and hiking. Rees participated in a hike to Cook's Look, a challenging trail that requires a high level of fitness.

On a hot and humid day, Rees reportedly felt unwell during the hike and was advised to return to the ship without an escort. Witnesses noted that when the Coral Adventurer left Lizard Island at sunset, Rees was not on board. Her body was discovered the next day, October 26, after a search was initiated when the ship realized she was missing.

Witnesses reported seeing a helicopter searching the area late Saturday night. Traci Ayris, who was sailing nearby, recalled hearing the helicopter's spotlight scanning the trail. "We knew that someone was missing and then we saw the Coral Adventurer heading back to Lizard [Island] on our AIS tracker," she said.

Rob Siganto, who was also in the vicinity, confirmed that the Coral Adventurer departed Lizard Island at sunset and that a helicopter arrived later to assist in the search.

Authorities, including the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and local police, are investigating the incident. Rees's family has called for a coronial inquiry. Her daughter, Katherine Rees, expressed her shock, stating, "We are shocked and saddened that the Coral Adventurer left Lizard Island after an organised excursion without my mum, Suzanne."

Katherine Rees criticized the lack of oversight, saying, "It seems that there was a failure of care and common sense. Then the ship left, apparently without doing a passenger count … mum died, alone."

Former passengers of the Coral Adventurer have expressed surprise at the incident, citing the crew's usual vigilance and safety protocols. Wendy Baker, who traveled on the Coral Discoverer and Coral Adventurer, noted that the crew typically conducts thorough briefings and closely supervises excursions.

Kathy Meehan, a frequent cruiser with Coral Expeditions, echoed these sentiments, stating that the health and safety of passengers are prioritized. "Every single trip I've done has been meticulous," she said. "If anybody's having difficulty, they're always helping them."

The investigation continues as the family and the public await answers regarding the events that led to Suzanne Rees's tragic death on Lizard Island.