A heartbreaking cruise tragedy unfolded in Alaska last week when 62-year-old Marites Buenafe of Kentucky vanished after failing to return to her ship. Her body was discovered days later by an Alaska Army National Guard helicopter crew below the ridge line of Gold Ridge, a remote mountain area near Juneau.
Buenafe, a doctor affiliated with UK HealthCare, disembarked from the Norwegian Bliss on July 1 to hike alone toward Gastineau Peak. She took a tourist tram partway up the mountain but never returned to the cruise ship before it departed. Her family contacted authorities when she failed to check in.
State troopers and Juneau Mountain Rescue teams, assisted by Temsco Helicopters and the National Guard, recovered her body late Thursday. Alaska officials confirmed that her remains will be sent to the medical examiner for an autopsy.
Norwegian Cruise Line issued a brief response: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the guest,” a spokesperson said. “Our CARE team is providing support to the guest’s family and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
The cruise tragedy raises serious safety concerns for solo travelers venturing into remote wilderness areas without guides or backup. Local authorities did not release any further information on possible injuries or causes of death, pending autopsy results.