A woman has been found dead after falling from a cruise ship off the South Australian coast.

The Pacific Explorer left Melbourne yesterday and was cruising to Kangaroo Island when a young woman on board fell overboard at about midnight last night.

When the tragic incident was reported a thorough overnight search commenced immediately. Sadly the woman’s body was found this morning.

Press PLAY below to hear from a passenger onboard

Michael, a passenger on board, says the ship is now returning to Melbourne.

“We continue to provide care and assistance to the family member this guest was travelling with and extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones,” a Carnival Australia spokesperson said.

If you or anyone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Image: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images