Norwegian Epic Rescues 63 People in the Ionian Sea – 22 October 2025

On 22 October 2025, Norwegian Epic, a cruise vessel operated by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), conducted a large-scale rescue operation in the Ionian Sea after responding to a distress call from the Hellenic Coast Guard. The ship rescued 63 individuals from an overcrowded sailboat located approximately 120 km (75 nautical miles) southwest of Zakynthos Island, Greece. All rescued persons were safely brought aboard and later handed over to Greek authorities in Kalamata.

The rescue was carried out under international maritime law, which obligates vessels to assist anyone in distress at sea regardless of nationality or circumstance. Greek officials confirmed the operation concluded successfully without injuries among the rescued group or crew.

Norwegian Epic was sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Santorini when it altered course in response to the Hellenic Coast Guard's call for assistance. The distress situation unfolded in international waters off western Greece, with the sailboat reported to be overcrowded and beginning to break apart as evening light faded. The ship's bridge crew spotted the small vessel and launched a rescue tender to reach those on board. All 63 people were safely brought aboard Norwegian Epic, where they received food, water, and medical attention. The rescued individuals were housed in a restricted section of the ship, away from guest areas, in accordance with maritime safety protocols. The next morning, the vessel docked in Kalamata, where the rescued persons were handed over to Greek authorities.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported among rescued persons or crew.

Rescued

• 63 individuals safely transferred from the sailboat to Norwegian Epic and later handed over to Greek authorities.

The Hellenic Coast Guard issued the initial distress call, which Norwegian Epic answered by altering course and launching a rescue tender. The ship's crew executed a rapid and coordinated rescue operation, with passengers witnessing the event describing it as highly coordinated and noting the crew's calm communication throughout the process. Following the successful transfer of rescued persons in Kalamata, Norwegian Epic resumed its voyage, continuing to Piraeus on October 24 before proceeding with the remainder of its itinerary.

The rescue operation concluded successfully on 23 October 2025, when the 63 rescued individuals were handed over to Greek authorities in Kalamata. Norwegian Epic resumed its scheduled itinerary following the diversion. Royal Norwegian officials thanked passengers for their understanding during the emergency diversion and commended the crew for their professionalism and humanitarian conduct.