How many people have survived falling off cruise ships?

So, you’re wondering how many people actually survive falling off a cruise ship? It’s a chilling thought, isn’t it? I mean, the sheer drop… brrrr. I’ve been on cruises – several, actually – and the thought always crosses my mind, even if just for a fleeting second.

Anyway, getting back to your question… nobody seems to keep super-precise records, which is kind of scary in itself, right? I read somewhere – and I’m trying to remember where, it was probably some kind of travel blog or something – that between 2009 and 2019, the survival rate was around 28%. That’s what some cruise industry group, CLIA I think it was, reported. Out of 212 people who fell overboard, about 60ish survived. That sounds awfully low, doesn’t it? I’d have guessed higher, personally.

Think about it, though – 60 people pulled from the ocean, after possibly hours, maybe even days! That’s amazing. That means there’s a pretty incredible rescue effort in place. They’re talking immediate action from the cruise ship itself, plus contacting the Coast Guard – which, you know, usually means helicopters and all that – and even other boats nearby. It’s a huge, coordinated thing. Reminds me of that time I saw a documentary about a similar rescue… it was gripping! They really do everything they can. Still makes me nervous near the railing, though. Maybe I’m just overly cautious. Or maybe I’ve watched too many movies! Ha!