A group of Samoan crew members aboard the MSC Splendida received accolades for their heroic actions during a rescue operation off Mallorca’s coast on October 26, 2025. The crew successfully saved 19 migrants, including two children, from drowning in a distressing situation. The incident took place roughly 20 nautical miles south of the Cabrera Archipelago in Spain’s Balearic Islands.
The cruise ship responded to an emergency alert regarding an overcrowded vessel carrying migrants from the Maghreb region. Upon arrival, the crew spotted several individuals struggling in the water. Demonstrating quick thinking, they deployed life-saving equipment and lowered a ladder to assist those in peril. The rescue operation, which unfolded in challenging sea conditions, lasted just over half an hour, ultimately ensuring the safety of all 19 individuals—16 men, one woman, and two young children aged three and four.
Captain Giuseppe Maresca and Safety Officer Antonio Bovento led the ship’s safety team, maintaining order and ensuring the crew’s effectiveness throughout the operation. Following the rescue, the crew was recognized by Samoa Shipping Services for their professionalism and commitment to maritime duty. Captain Maresca expressed gratitude with a private dinner to honor the crew’s composure and decisive actions under pressure. The rescued migrants remained aboard the MSC Splendida until its arrival in Barcelona, where they were handed over to local authorities for care.
