Tom Gigler, a 56-year-old passenger, reportedly jumped overboard from the Carnival Panorama cruise ship on Saturday, September 19, 2026, near the California coast. Surveillance footage confirmed the incident. The US Coast Guard conducted an extensive search covering more than 1,707 square miles between California and Mexico over approximately 41 hours but found no trace of Gigler.
Carnival Panorama Cruise Route and Onboard Response
The Carnival Panorama had departed Long Beach, California, on September 13, 2026, embarking on a seven-night Mexican Riviera cruise with stops including Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The overboard incident occurred during the return leg from Puerto Vallarta to Long Beach.
After the passenger was reported missing by 1:30 pm on September 19, the cruise ship reversed course toward Puerto Vallarta to assist with search efforts.
Passengers aboard the ship were repeatedly informed via intercom announcements calling Tom Gigler’s name. Carnival Panorama’s crew instructed passengers to return to their staterooms for a headcount during the search. Passenger Misty Hernandez noted the ship’s unexpected turnaround and the urgency conveyed through multiple announcements, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Hernandez also shared that Gigler was on board with his wife and children for an anniversary trip.
Search Suspension and Official Statements
By Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the US
Coast Guard suspended the search for Tom Gigler after thorough efforts yielded no results. Jessica Davila, chief of incident management for the US Coast Guard’s south-west district, said, “Decisions to suspend search operations are never easy and are made with careful consideration of all available information. Our hearts are with those impacted by his loss.” Carnival Cruise Line confirmed it is providing support to Gigler’s family and travel companions and extended its thoughts and prayers to them.
Background and Current Status
Tom Gigler was last seen on the evening of Friday, September 18, before being reported missing the next day. Surveillance footage showed him
going overboard, though the exact circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear. The cruise ship resumed its voyage back to Long Beach after search operations concluded. Carnival Panorama’s itinerary is currently unaffected beyond the search period. Authorities and the cruise line have not disclosed additional details regarding the incident or the passenger’s condition.
