An Urgent Search for Missing Cruise Passenger
An international search is in full swing after a passenger vanished during a Mediterranean cruise on the AIDAluna. The missing woman, Qin Dong, is a Chinese national living in Germany. She embarked on a solo five-night cruise, boarding the ship in Palma de Mallorca on 10th December 2025. However, she was not present when the ship returned to the same port on 15th December.
Disappearance Linked to Marseille Port Call
The AIDAluna’s itinerary included stops in Marseille, Palamos, and Barcelona, with a sea day on 11th December. The ship docked in Marseille at 8am on 12th December, which is the last confirmed day Dong was seen onboard. Cruise officials confirmed that Dong did not officially disembark at any point during the journey. Despite this, friends received text messages from her around 8pm on 12th December, two hours after the ship left Marseille. This suggests she went missing while still onboard.
No Emergency Alerts Reported Onboard
Interestingly, no emergency alerts or search operations were reported during the cruise. It remains uncertain if Dong went overboard, as no incident triggered a ship-wide response. Onboard records show minimal activity from Dong, with only one drink, an orange juice, charged to her account. Since the ship’s return, family and friends have taken to social media, urging anyone with information to come forward. “Even the smallest clue or memory could be crucial!” they plead.
Three Countries Involved in the Investigation
The investigation now spans three countries. French authorities are involved since the disappearance occurred while docked in Marseille. Chinese officials are notified due to Dong’s citizenship, and German authorities are engaged because AIDA Cruises is a German line and Dong resided in Germany. Despite the ongoing investigation, AIDAluna continued its itinerary without delays or changes. The Sphinx-class ship, accommodating around 2,100 guests and 600 crew, is currently operating Mediterranean cruises from Palma de Mallorca.
The mystery surrounding Qin Dong’s disappearance remains unsolved. As the search continues, authorities and loved ones hope for any information that could shed light on her whereabouts.
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