Introduction
On October 26, 2025, the MSC Splendida carried out a rescue operation south of Mallorca, saving 19 people—including two small children—from drowning after their overcrowded boat capsized in rough seas. The action, led by Captain Giuseppe Maresca and his bridge and safety teams, exemplified disciplined seamanship and adherence to international maritime duty.
Details of the Rescue
Distress Situation:
- The ship responded to a distress alert from Spanish maritime authorities about a small craft in trouble roughly 20 nautical miles (37 km) south of the Cabrera Archipelago in the Balearic Islands.
- When MSC Splendida arrived on scene, several people were already in the water, clinging to debris from the sinking boat believed to have departed the Maghreb region.
Rescue Operation:
- Under Captain Maresca’s command, life rings and ladders were deployed, and trained seafarers—including a team of Samoan crew members—entered the rescue zone to assist those struggling to stay afloat.
- Within 30 minutes, all 19 people—16 men, one woman, and two children aged three and four—were safely recovered despite rough sea conditions.
- The rescued were provided with food, water, medical evaluations, and dry clothing once aboard.
Recognition and Follow-Up:
- Captain Maresca and Safety Officer Antonio Bovento were commended for their coordination and calm leadership during the operation.
- The Samoan rescue team received special recognition from Samoa Shipping Services (SSS), their crewing agency, for their professionalism and humanitarian response. A private dinner was later hosted in the Captain’s Lounge to thank those involved.
- As per standard procedure, the 19 rescued individuals remained aboard until MSC Splendida reached Barcelona, where they were transferred to Spanish authorities and placed under the care of social services.
Humanitarian Significance:
- The rescue highlights the continuing migrant crisis in the western Mediterranean, where cruise and commercial vessels often become first responders under the obligations of the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR).
- In its statement, SSS noted that the incident reflects the essential contribution of Samoan seafarers to global maritime safety and underscored the enduring ethos of rescue and compassion at sea.