A heroic father leapt into the ocean to save his five-year-old daughter after she fell from a Disney Cruise Line vessel over the weekend.
The family trip took a near-fatal turn after the young girl fell from the Disney Dream while it was heading back to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from the Bahamas. Fortunately for the infant, and according to eyewitnesses, her father didn’t think twice after she toppled over from the fourth deck, immediately jumping in after her.
The ship subsequently broadcast that there was a man overboard over the intercom, and rescue personnel sprang into action as they got an operation underway.
The Disney cruise was still moving after the young girl fell, but her father reached her and kept her afloat. Passengers watched on in shock as the courageous dad treaded water for close to 20 minutes, keeping his daughter above the surface until a rescue boat pulled them on board.
Passengers applauded after they were taken onto the rescue vessel.
Disney Cruise Line Makes A Statement
Disney Cruise Line has released a statement following the incident, praising its crew members for their actions while insisting that they remain committed to safety.
“We commend our Crew Members for their exceptional skills and prompt actions, which ensured the safe return of both guests to the ship within minutes,” the company said.
“We are committed to the safety and well-being of our guests, and this incident highlights the effectiveness of our safety protocols,” they added.
The details of how the girl fell are unknown, but the mishap has triggered conversations on cruise safety and parental negligence.
Fortunately for everyone involved, the father’s lack of hesitation and the safety protocols put in place prevented the loss of life.
