Coast Guard Suspends Search for Missing Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Passenger

— -- The Coast Guard announced late today it has suspended the search for a man who fell overboard from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship off the coast of Key Largo, Florida.

Search-and-rescue crews searched a total area of 2,583 square nautical miles before the search was called off, the Coast Guard said.

"We want to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Mossman as the decision to suspend a search is never an easy one to make and is done with great care and deliberation," said Chris Eddy, search-and-rescue technical specialist at the Coast Guard 7th District. "Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and an exhaustive search, our crews were unable to locate him."

David Mossman, 46, of Texas, fell overboard the Navigator of the Seas late Friday, said officials with the Coast Guard and Royal Caribbean. The Coast Guard assumed control of the search early Saturday, the cruise line said.

"Royal Caribbean’s Care Team is providing support to the guest’s family and our thoughts and prayers are with them," Royal Caribbean said in a statement.

Navigator of the Seas then resumed its journey back to Port Everglades, Florida, where it arrived Saturday morning. The ship had departed Port Everglades for the cruise on Feb. 28, the cruise line said.