Cruise ship tragedy as girl (10) drowns in pool

A 10-year-old girl has drowned in a swimming pool aboard a cruise ship off the US east coast.

Cruise ships. Image by Michael Malone / CC BY 2.0

The Norwegian Cruise Line ship immediately sailed to a nearby port in Florida, the US Coast Guard said.

The girl drowned aboard the Norwegian Gem while it was in Atlantic waters about 75 miles east of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Nate Littlejohn said the crew reported the death to the coastguard before sailing to Port Canaveral, Florida.

“We are extremely saddened to have learned that a guest passed away on Sunday aboard the Norwegian Gem,” Vanessa Picariello, a spokeswoman for Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Lines, said in a statement.

“On Sunday afternoon, the ship’s medical team responded to an emergency call from the pool deck, as a 10-year-old female guest was reported unresponsive. The team quickly administered CPR and full emergency care. After extensive efforts, the guest could not be revived.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family during this very difficult time. Norwegian’s care team is providing full assistance and support to the family.”

Ms Picariello said the Norwegian Gem left New York on Saturday on a scheduled seven-day cruise to Florida and the Bahamas.

(Press Association)