We’re pleased to report that all passengers are safe and accounted for after a fire broke out on a ferry sailing from Greece to Italy
In the early hours of Sunday morning, a fire broke out on a ferry traveling from Greece to Italy. Thankfully, all passengers and crew have been safely evacuated and are accounted for, according to Greek officials.
The incident occurred on the Norman Atlantic, a ferry operated by the Italian ferry company, Visemar di Navigazione, which was sailing from Patras in western Greece to the Italian port of Ancona. The fire started in the car deck and spread to the cabins, creating a chaotic scene for the approximately 400 passengers and crew on board.
Bad Weather Problems
Despite the intensity of the fire, rescue teams from Italy and Greece were able to quickly respond and evacuate all passengers and crew from the vessel. The operation was challenging due to the rough seas and high winds, but all involved acted quickly to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
Greek officials have confirmed that one passenger was found alive and in good health several hours after the evacuation. The passenger was discovered by a rescue helicopter, which spotted him floating in the sea wearing a lifejacket. He was immediately rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but Italian officials have suggested that it may have been caused by a truck carrying flammable material that was on board the vessel.
The safety and well-being of passengers and crew are always our top priority, and we are grateful to the rescue teams who acted quickly to ensure the safe evacuation of everyone on board the Norman Atlantic. Our thoughts are with those affected by this incident, and we will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
