A tragic incident unfolded on a luxury island within the Great Barrier Reef as a cruise passenger was discovered deceased after missing her ship departure.

The elderly woman, in her 80s, was on Coral Expedition’s journey to Lizard Island, located near Cooktown, on Saturday.

The crew of the cruise ship alerted authorities when she failed to rejoin the vessel later that day.

Despite extensive land and sea searches, rescue teams found her lifeless on the island the next day.

Mark Fifield, the chief executive of Coral Expeditions, expressed condolences to her family and stated that the company is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigations.

“We are saddened to confirm the unfortunate passing of a passenger aboard the Coral Adventurer during a visit to Lizard Island in Queensland,” he conveyed through an official statement.

“While investigations into the incident are continuing, we are deeply sorry that this has occurred and are offering our full support to the woman’s family.

“The Coral team have been in contact with the woman’s family, and we will continue to offer support to them through this difficult process.

“We are working closely with Queensland Police and other authorities to support their investigation.”

The woman was on board the Coral Adventurer, a spacious cruise ship that can hold 120 guests and 46 crew members.

Queensland Police is investigating the death, but has ruled it non-suspicious.

A report is being prepared for the coroner.