PHILIPSBURG--A cruise ship passenger had a lucky escape when he became unwell whilst swimming in the Great Bay, causing him to nearly drown.
A police report states that around 3:00pm on Tuesday, September 23, police patrols and paramedics were sent to Boardwalk Boulevard in the vicinity of Holland House, where a passenger of the Norwegian cruise ship in port had become ill while swimming, and almost drowned.
The victim was brought ashore by bystanders who saw the man needed help. On the scene, the officers encountered the victim J.J.C. (66) lying on his side and being assisted by a registered nurse and a fire fighter from the US.
Shortly after, paramedics arrived on the scene and transported the man to St. Maarten Medical Center, where he was treated and admitted for observation.
The cruise ship's representatives on the island are taking care of the victim and his wife. When the victim is dismissed from the hospital, it will be decided if they will rejoin the cruise or fly back home.
