Child Overboard Incident in Salerno: Quick Response Prevents Tragedy on October 3, 2023

Introduction

On October 3, 2023, a potentially catastrophic incident was narrowly averted as an 8-year-old boy fell into the waters while disembarking a cruise ship in Salerno, Italy. Quick thinking and rapid responses from port security personnel and the ship’s crew ensured the safety of the child and his father.

Details of the Incident

The incident unfolded as the young boy, who had been holding his father’s hand moments before, suddenly broke free and slipped into the water while running along the pier. Despite his father’s immediate attempts to rescue him, the narrow gap between the concrete structure and the ship made it impossible for him to reach the boy.

Fortunately, the swift actions of the port’s security personnel and the ship’s crew played a crucial role in averting tragedy. They provided a rope to the father and a lifebuoy to the child, facilitating their safe and uninjured retrieval from the water. The incident understandably left the mother in a state of shock.

Operational Context

This incident occurred during a 7-day cruise voyage from Rome to Piraeus, taking place from October 2 to October 9. The itinerary included ports of call in Salerno on October 3, Messina Sicily on October 4, Santorini Greece on October 6, Kusadasi Turkey on October 7, and Mykonos Greece on October 8.