Holland America Passenger dies

A passenger on board Holland America Line’s Ms Ryndam has died following an accident on a snorkelling tour.

The incident happened on Wednesday during the planned excursion which is sold through the cruise line in Belize.

Reports indicate that Holland America has confirmed the woman to be Diana Mechling, a 59 year old American Citizen. She was taken to hospital after the accident but could not be revived.

Holland America has released few details of the incident but Belize’s 7 News reports she died after getting caught in the propeller of the excursion boat that had taken a group from the ship snorkelling at Goff’s Caye. The cruise line has announced an investigation is underway and they have discontinued offering the tour pending the outcome of the investigation.

"We are deeply saddened by this," the line says, noting that it has deployed a care team to assist the woman's family. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends."