Summer is in full swing in the United States in 2024, and many activities include beachgoing, cruise-ship adventures, and more. While most of the activities on cruise ships are filled with fun and relaxation, occasionally things happen in contrast to plans; travel is not without its risks. In the case of one family, a nightmarish situation occurred on what was likely a routine family vacation. In September 2023 a guest aboard a Carnival cruise ship was reported missing by his family.
As recounted by the Miami police department, Kevin McGrath had boarded a boat named the Carnival Conquest with the family and was last seen early on the morning of his disappearance. His brother had spotted him in his cabin around the time that the ship returned to port in Miami. After McGrath failed to appear for a scheduled breakfast with the family, an extensive search was launched by crew members for the 26 year old. Later, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Miami-Dade police department were notified, with the former patrolling the water near the port for the man. All search efforts were inconclusive and unsuccessful. McGrath was a native of Florida. Coast guard crews searched an area of 3,300 square nautical miles off the coast of Florida.
Cruise ships continue to remain a popular vacation activity choice for many individuals. One state, Alaska, is known for its cruise options that provide people with a chance to experience the natural beauty of the far-northwestern state. Alaskans are fed up with the tourists, though; residents of the capital city have a chance to vote on a measure that would ban cruise ships with 250 or more people from docking in Juneau on Saturdays. This will be voted on by residents on October 1st. While locals are fed up with an influx of tourists, one may wonder about the negative economic implications this legislation may have on the popular Alaskan city.