The exciting experience of a Disney Cruise Line vacation was interrupted by a 5-year-old passenger falling overboard from the M/V Disney Dream early last week. The harrowing incident thankfully ending in a successful rescue, has drawn national attention—not just because of the miraculous outcome, but also due to broader safety concerns about man overboard (MOB) events at sea (See Part 1 of this series for a more detailed recap of the incident).

Here’s what we can learn from the M/V/ Disney Dream incident—and what you need to know to stay safe and respond effectively if someone falls overboard from a cruise ship.

What Happens When Someone Falls Overboard?

If a person falls from a cruise ship, a Man Overboard (MOB) emergency protocol is triggered:

1. Emergency Code Broadcast: The bridge issues an MOB alert to notify the crew/MOB alarm is sounded.
2. Immediate Response:
   • Life rings and flotation devices are thrown into the water. 
   • Crew deploys rescue tenders or lifeboats.
3. Navigation Adjustments: The ship slows down or stops, if possible, and may turn back.
4. Technology Support: Onboard thermal imaging, motion sensors, and surveillance video help track the person in the water.
5. External Support: U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) or nearby vessels may be contacted for assistance.

Successful rescues depend on quick detection, calm decision-making and favorable weather conditions. Every passing minute reduces the odds of survival.

Can Falling Overboard Be Fatal?

Sadly, the majority of overboard cases result in fatalities. Odds are stacked against victims due to the following hazards:

• Impact Injuries: Falling from a multi-story height into water can cause broken bones, spinal injuries, brain injuries, internal bleeding, and/or unconsciousness, compromising the victim’s ability to stay afloat or signal for help.
• Drowning: Panic, waves, and exhaustion can overwhelm a person within minutes if the victim cannot float or swim effectively.
• Hypothermia: Even in waters as warm as 60-70º Fahrenheit, prolonged exposure can cause body temperature to plummet, leading to confusion, muscle failure, and death in as little as two hours.
• Marine Life: Though rare, ocean wildlife attracted by the noise, vibrations, or food waste generated by cruise ships can pose a risk.  

Always keep in mind exposure, exhaustion, and impact injuries are the biggest dangers to consider.

What Should You Do If You See Someone Fall Overboard?

If you witness someone fall or jump from a cruise ship, every second counts: 

1. Act Fast:
   • Shout “Man Overboard!” loudly and repeatedly to alert others nearby.
   • Immediately alert a crew member or call the ship’s emergency number if possible.
   • Notify crew of the exact time and location of the incident.

2. Throw a Flotation Device:
   • Immediately throw a life ring, buoy, or anything that floats into the water near the person. This helps them stay afloat and increases their visibility.

3. Don’t Jump In:
   • While the father aboard the M/V Disney Dream did save his daughter and was recovered by crew, experts strongly advise against jumping in. The ship’s crew is trained in maritime rescue and will act quickly.

4. Provide Descriptive Details:
   • Relay what the person was wearing, how they fell, whether they were holding anything, and any medical or physical conditions that might affect survival.

5. Stay Calm but Watch Closely:
   • Your eyewitness report can make the difference in locating and rescuing the person. Try to track them visually (for example, keeping eyes locked and pointing) until help arrives.

What Should You do if YOU Fall Overboard?

Survival is possible — and it starts with mindset and preparation.

• Stay Calm: Panic drains energy, reducing your ability to stay afloat.

• Float or Tread Water: Conserve energy. If you don’t have a life jacket, your shoes or clothes can act as makeshift flotation aids.

• Be Visible as Possible: Shout, wave, splash, whistle, or use any light-emitting device to attract attention.

• 

  Avoid Swimming Toward Ship: The suction and turbulence caused by the ship’s propellers is very dangerous. Conserve your energy, float and wait.

• Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP): In cold water, cross your arms and bring your knees to your chest to reduce heat loss. (Also see HUDDLE position when in groups)

Cruising is magical—but make sure you’re covered if things go wrong. Know your rights, act quickly, and don’t let legal fine print sink your claim.

If you or a loved one have been the victim of such an incident, contact an attorney experienced in maritime law and personal injury law such as the team here at Herd Law Firm, to explore and discuss your options.

Final Tips for Staying Safe on a Cruise:

• Never sit on, climb, or lean over railings, no matter how tempting, for a photo or view.
• Always supervise young children on open decks or balconies.
• Teach kids cruise safety rules just as you would teach them about crossing a street.
• Avoid excessive alcohol, especially near railings or pools.
• Report any risky behavior or unsecured areas to the crew immediately.

We at the Herd Law Firm are proud to fight for seamen, maritime workers and passengers in all types of personal injury and death claims. As maritime personal injury attorneys (and sailors ourselves!) located in northwest Houston, we never waver in our commitment to help these maritime workers, passengers, and their families when they are injured or mistreated.

7/9/2025

Sources: Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) (Read 2025 report here), International Cruise Victim Lawyers Association (ICVLA.org), Disney Cruise Lines, Maritime Safety Consultants, Inc., U.S. Coast Guard , U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS)