Overboard Europe Baltic · 16 July 2025
18-Year-Old Recovered Alive After Going Overboard from AIDAnova – 16 July 2025
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What happened
On 16 July 2025, an 18-year-old passenger went overboard from the cruise vessel AIDAnova in the Baltic Sea while en route to Copenhagen. The individual was rescued alive after being spotted in the water during the early morning hours and brought back aboard in a responsive state with stable medical condition.
AIDA Cruises confirmed the incident. Danish police reported that the passenger had been under the influence of alcohol and had made prior remarks about entering the water before doing so. Following a full muster and headcount that confirmed all persons accounted for by 04:00 local time, AIDAnova resumed its scheduled voyage toward Copenhagen.
Details of the rescue
The "man overboard" alarm was sounded at approximately 02:00 local time. The vessel, carrying approximately 6,600 passengers and crew, immediately reduced speed as wind conditions were recorded at force six. The ship's master coordinated search procedures and requested balcony cabin passengers to illuminate the water using their mobile phone torches to aid visibility. Ship's rescue boats deployed with searchlights to sweep the area. The passenger was spotted through the combined vigilance of crew and guests and was retrieved from the water in a responsive state, then brought back aboard for medical treatment.
Passengers and crew
Total onboard
- Approximately 6,600 passengers and crew.
Casualties
Fatalities
- None reported.
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- 1 passenger (18 years old) recovered alive from the water and brought aboard in responsive state with stable medical condition.
Emergency response
Upon sounding the man overboard alarm, AIDAnova immediately reduced speed and deployed ship's rescue boats equipped with searchlights. The master coordinated search procedures and crew worked in conjunction with passengers who used mobile phone torches to illuminate the water. A full muster and headcount was conducted and confirmed all persons accounted for by 04:00 local time.
Current status
Following resolution of the emergency and completion of muster procedures, AIDAnova resumed its scheduled voyage toward Copenhagen. No further injuries were reported.