Costa Europa Collides with Pier, Leaving Three Dead

 

Photo courtesy of msnbc.com

Three crew members aboard Costa Cruise's Costa Europa died early this morning, February 26, when the cruise ship slammed into the pier as it was docking at an Egyptian Red Sea resort, msnbc.com reports.

The ship, carrying 1,500 passengers, was docking in high winds, which is what is believed to be the cause of the collision. Other passengers have been put up in hotels and arrangements are being made for their returns home.

Costa Cruises Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi says, ""In reference to the accident that occurred this morning to the Costa Europa while berthing in Sharm El Sheik, I would like to express our great sorrow suffered by the families of the three crew members who tragically died. According to preliminary and ongoing investigations, bad weather conditions and unexpected wind caused the impact of the ship on the pier. I would like to clarify that all other passengers and crew members were not in danger.  Moreover, I would like to sincerely thank all ship personnel for their swift reaction and professionalism in managing the accident. I would also like to express my deepest regret for the inconvenience of the interruption of the cruise to our guests who were on holiday. All guests have been disembarked, are safe, and are now being hosted in local hotels, where the organization for their return is in place."

Costa Europa was on an 18-day cruise from Dubai to Savona.

Visit www.costacruise.com.