Stranded American Couple Left Behind by Cruise Ship in Spain

In a dramatic turn of events, an elderly American couple, Richard and Claudene Gordon, were left behind by their cruise ship while it docked in Motril, Spain. The couple, aged 84 and 81 respectively, found themselves stranded after an independent excursion to Granada took longer than expected due to a rainstorm.

The Gordons, hailing from Salt Lake City, Utah, were part of a Mediterranean cruise aboard the Norwegian Viva. Their misadventure began when they failed to return to the ship on time, missing the scheduled departure at approximately 6 p.m. local time.

Despite efforts by family members onboard to alert the cruise staff, the ship departed as planned, leaving the couple without essential belongings, including medication and eyeglasses. With no immediate assistance from Norwegian Cruise Line, the Gordons had to find temporary accommodation in Granada while their daughter, Marilee Barker, worked tirelessly to arrange their reunion with the ship.

After two days, Norwegian Cruise Line finally made contact with the stranded couple, providing transportation for them to rejoin the vessel in Palma de Mallorca. Despite the reunion, the Gordons expressed disappointment at the lack of communication and assistance during their ordeal.

Norwegian Cruise Line, however, disputed the timing of the couple’s arrival at the pier, asserting that they missed the designated all-aboard time. They emphasized the importance of adhering to the set itinerary for the smooth operation of the voyage.