A terrifying moment unfolded aboard the Disney Dream cruise ship over the weekend when a 5-year-old girl accidentally fell overboard.
According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, the child lost her balance while sitting on a railing and fell backward through an open porthole into the ocean.Her father, without hesitation, dove through the same opening and into the water to rescue her.
The girl’s mother witnessed the accident and immediately shouted for help, prompting the father’s instinctive dive into the sea. For nearly 20 minutes, the father treaded water with his daughter in his arms, keeping her afloat while rescue teams from the Disney crew mobilized to reach them. Thankfully, both were pulled from the water safely, and no serious injuries were reported.
The sheriff’s office later praised the quick and effective response of the Disney Dream’s rescue team.
Eyewitnesses on board described the rescue operation as fast-paced and emotionally intense.
Many passengers expressed their relief and admiration for the Disney crew, calling them “miracle workers” for their calm under pressure and professionalism. The ship’s emergency procedures were clearly in place and executed flawlessly, a point emphasized by officials during their statement.
In response to growing speculation and rumors circulating online, the Broward Sheriff’s Office released an official statement to clarify the facts. False reports had begun to spread across social media, claiming the father had been holding the child over the edge before she fell.
Authorities have dismissed those claims and confirmed that no criminal charges have been filed. They reiterated that the family did nothing wrong and asked the public to stop spreading misinformation.
“This family is so blessed,” the sheriff’s office stated. “It’s great to be able to respond to good news rather than what could have been a tragic outcome.” Officials emphasized the importance of accurate reporting in sensitive incidents like this, especially when young children are involved.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the family and highlighting the efforts of those who prevented a potential tragedy at sea.