Missing Alaska Cruise Passenger Found Dead After Hike

The body of a 62-year-old woman who went missing during an Alaska cruise has been recovered, days after she failed to return to the Norwegian Bliss while the ship was docked in Juneau.

Marites Buenafe, a resident of Kentucky, was last seen on security footage around 7:30 a.m. last Tuesday at the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway. In text messages to her family earlier that morning, she shared her plans to take the tram and then hike from Gold Ridge to Gastineau Peak, a scenic but challenging trail located just outside downtown Juneau.

When Buenafe did not return to the Norwegian Bliss before its 1:30 p.m. departure, she was reported missing. A large-scale search effort was launched, involving local rescue teams and aerial surveillance of the area.

Her body was located Thursday morning approximately 1,700 feet below the Gold Ridge ridgeline. Authorities have not yet released details on the cause of death, but the steep and rugged terrain is known for its hazards, particularly in poor weather conditions.

The Norwegian Bliss, operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, was on a 7-day roundtrip sailing from Seattle, visiting several ports in Alaska.

This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with independent excursions in remote areas, especially when hiking alone. Local officials advise visitors to inform someone of their plans, carry safety equipment, and be aware of changing trail conditions when exploring Juneau’s wilderness.

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