Two cruise passengers were taken to hospital after a gangway collapse and their ship broke its moorings.
The mooring lines of the Norwegian Epic broke free in Catania, Sicily, resulting in the collapse of the gangway.
At this point a woman fell into the water. Her husband jumped in to save her and they were both taken to hospital with minor injuries.
One passenger posted online that the mooring line ‘snapped like twigs’ in strong winds.
Boarding of the ship had to be delayed for several hours until winds dropped and the ship could be secured again.
“On-duty crew members were able to assist the guest from the water and see that they were evaluated by the medical team. It was determined that they sustained minor injuries,” a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson said.
“The disembarkation and embarkation process was paused until weather conditions improved and the ship was able to safely dock again. The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority.”
The Italian Meteorological Service had earlier issued a weather warning for possible strong winds in the area.
The Norwegian Epic was sailing a 10-night round-trip Mediterranean cruise from Civitavecchia.
