Shocker at Sea

we heard a 'code mike' called in the crew quarters this morning. It is with regret I inform you that means a crew member was pronounced dead at 10:45 am local time.

We arrived at Darwin at approximately 1:40 pm, when we first learned of the situation. Coroner and police arrived to conduct their investigations. The ship was released for entry at approximately 4:30 pm. A few people are debarking as previously planned; one shore excursion is being offered for part of the tour. The rest of the passengers are offered either a shuttle bus to town or a two hour panoramic tour with a stop at the botanical gardens.

It's been quite a sober atmosphere aboard the ship. The worst news is crew leave has been cancelled in this port.

a fellow travel has calculated we will spend approximately 13 hours on land in australia. The crew has not had but a fraction of that time, as the port stops have been short.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of the crew member and to the crew, who are working on our behalf despite this unexpected event.

http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2013/02/03/317251_ntnews.html covers what is officially known at this point. No point speculating beyond what's in this article

Sad, sad afternoon.