MSC Splendida Rescues 19 Migrants in Rough Seas Off Mallorca
As Mediterranean crossings continue, cruise ships are increasingly becoming first responders at sea, highlighting how migration pressures now intersect with tourism routes.
MSC Cruises said MSC Splendida rescued 19 migrants in rough seas near Mallorca, Spain, on Oct. 26, 2025, after Spanish authorities asked the ship to divert to assist a small boat in distress.
The 3,900-passenger vessel was sailing in the Balearic Islands en route to Barcelona when it was directed toward the emergency. MSC Cruises said the request came as weather deteriorated and conditions at sea were unsafe.
Spanish authorities request assistance off the Balearic Islands
MSC said the small boat was located about 20 nautical miles off Cabrera, near Palma de Mallorca. When MSC Splendida arrived, crew members found people in perilous conditions, with some already in the water.
The operation took place on the final day of a four-night Mediterranean cruise. Cruise tracking data cited in reports showed the ship departed on Oct. 23 and continued toward Barcelona after the rescue.
How the rescue unfolded on board MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida’s captain, Giuseppe Maresca, led the response as the crew deployed a ladder to bring those on board. MSC said the rescue was completed in 31 minutes despite the rough seas.
The migrants were identified as being from the Maghreb region of North Africa and included men, one woman, and two young children aged three and four.
“Every seafarer always puts safety first and foremost, and saving lives is part of our DNA,” Maresca said. “My crew played their part to ensure that this rescue was carried out safely in difficult conditions. I am very proud of my crew and their professional and caring response.”
Medical checks, basic supplies, and transfer in Barcelona
After the group was brought aboard, MSC said the ship’s team provided medical attention, food, drinks, clean clothing, and a place to rest.
MSC Splendida reached Barcelona the next day, Oct. 27, where the rescued individuals disembarked and were handed over to local authorities. Reports said the transfer followed international maritime law under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention, with social services in Barcelona assisting the migrants with asylum applications and next steps.
MSC said the incident did not disrupt the ship’s operational schedule, and passenger disembarkation proceeded in Barcelona as planned.
Samoa Shipping Services recognizes Samoan seafarers
The rescue also drew public recognition for Samoan crew members on board. Samoa Shipping Services (SSS), which recruits seafarers working with MSC, praised the group for remaining effective under pressure during the at-sea emergency.
“SSS is immensely proud to support and recognize our Samoan seafarers recruited for MSC, who consistently demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication at sea,” the agency said in a social media post.
SSS said 14 crew members received formal accolades and were recognized during a dinner in the Captain’s Lounge. The agency said Captain Maresca and Safety Officer Antonio Bovento were among those who thanked the crew for their actions.
Rescues by cruise ships remain a recurring reality in the Mediterranean
The MSC Splendida rescue came shortly after another incident in the region. A Norwegian Cruise Line vessel rescued 63 individuals in the Ionian Sea in the days before the Mallorca operation.
Under SOLAS-related maritime practice cited in reports, vessels are required to assist people in distress when it is safe to do so, with rescues typically concluding when those rescued are transferred to authorities at the next suitable port.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who did MSC Splendida rescue near Mallorca?
MSC Cruises said MSC Splendida rescued 19 migrants from a distressed small boat. They were identified as being from the Maghreb region of North Africa and included men, one woman, and two children aged three and four.
How long did the rescue take, and where did it happen?
MSC said the rescue was completed in 31 minutes in rough seas about 20 nautical miles off Cabrera in the Balearic Islands, near Mallorca.
What support did the rescued passengers receive on board?
MSC said the crew provided medical attention along with food, drinks, clean clothing, and a place to rest until the ship arrived in Barcelona.
Did the rescue affect MSC Splendida’s schedule?
MSC said the operation did not affect the ship’s operational schedule. The ship continued toward Barcelona and docked there the following day for passenger disembarkation.
