CHARLESTON, S.C. - The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has commenced a search and rescue operation for a 41-year-old passenger who went overboard from the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Vision of the Seas. The incident occurred on December 23, approximately 127 miles east of Charleston.

The USCG officially announced the search at 11:03 a.m. on Christmas Eve, indicating its immediate response to the incident. Royal Caribbean promptly reported the incident to local authorities and initiated a search mission in collaboration with the Coast Guard.

As of December 24, Royal Caribbean has refrained from providing further details about the incident, citing the need to respect the privacy of the passenger and his family.

Efforts to locate the missing passenger are currently underway, with the USCG coordinating aircrews in the search mission. The Coast Guard's involvement highlights the urgency and dedication of maritime authorities in responding to distress calls at sea.

The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with sea travel, particularly during the holiday season when many people embark on cruise vacations. Cruise lines and maritime officials continuously emphasize the importance of adhering to safety protocols and urge passengers to exercise caution onboard.

This incident also highlights the critical role of the USCG in ensuring the safety of those at sea. Their swift response and ongoing search efforts demonstrate their commitment to preserving human life and providing assistance in times of crisis.

As the search and rescue operation continues, authorities remain focused on locating the missing passenger. Updates regarding the incident will be provided as soon as further information becomes available.

In the meantime, thoughts and prayers are with the family of the missing individual as they navigate this challenging and distressing situation.