NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – On Friday, a crew member aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship was saved after falling overboard in the waters off Southern California. Three local fishermen, out about 20 miles offshore near Catalina Island, spotted the man floating on his back and brought him aboard their vessel.

Rescue details

The cruise ship had departed San Pedro earlier that day, heading south toward Ensenada, Mexico, when the incident occurred. The fishermen reported that the man appeared exhausted when they pulled him aboard, but he remained conscious and breathing.

The U.S. Coast Guard was alerted by a good Samaritan who observed the rescue and confirmed the location roughly 9 nautical miles northeast of Avalon Harbor. Newport Beach lifeguards met the fishermen after the rescue, escorted the man back to shore, and arranged for his transport to a local hospital.

Company response

Royal Caribbean confirmed to ABC News that the individual was a crew member on the vessel and said the company is providing support and assistance during this difficult time. No further details about the circumstances that led to the overboard event have been released, and the crew member’s medical condition remains undisclosed.

Community impact

The incident highlights the vigilance of local mariners and the coordination between private boaters, the Coast Guard, and Newport Beach emergency services. Residents praised the quick actions of the fishermen, describing them as “good Samaritans” who helped prevent a potential tragedy.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the overboard incident. The Coast Guard and Royal Caribbean have not indicated whether any safety protocols will be reviewed or updated as a result.

For now, the rescued crew member is receiving medical care, and the community remains grateful for the timely response that averted a worse outcome.

Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.