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Introduction
A serious onboard medical emergency aboard the Scandinavian ferry Color Fantasy prompted an urgent medical evacuation on December 13, 2025. The incident occurred shortly after the vessel departed Kiel, Germany, en route to Oslo, Norway, while the ship was still navigating within the Kiel Fjord.
Details of the Incident
Injury and Initial Alert:
- A 30-year-old female crew member sustained serious injuries requiring medical care beyond the ship’s onboard capabilities.
- The emergency was reported soon after departure, while the ferry was transiting the outer approaches of the Kieler Förde.
- The Norwegian Maritime Emergency Coordination Centre (NMCC) in Stavanger was notified and immediately relayed the alert to MRCC Bremen.
Rescue Coordination:
- MRCC Bremen tasked the DGzRS rescue cruiser HANS HACKMACK (MMSI 211235200), stationed in Laboe, to intercept the ferry.
- At approximately 600 metres off Laboe, the rescue vessel manoeuvred alongside Color Fantasy under calm sea conditions and a moderate westerly breeze.
- The injured crew member was transferred safely from Color Fantasy to the DGzRS vessel without complication.
- She was transported to Laboe Harbour, where land-based emergency services were waiting.
- Due to the severity of her injuries, a rescue helicopter was subsequently dispatched to airlift her to a specialised hospital for further treatment.
Operational Context:
- Color Fantasy is a 224-metre passenger ferry operating regular overnight services between Kiel and Oslo.
- The medevac occurred close to shore, allowing a rapid surface transfer rather than a helicopter hoist at sea.
- The ferry resumed its scheduled voyage following the successful evacuation.
Maritime Emergency Response:
- The coordinated effort between NMCC Stavanger, MRCC Bremen, and the DGzRS demonstrated established Baltic Sea SAR procedures.
- Such cooperation enables swift medical evacuation of injured seafarers from vessels underway across national jurisdictions.