An MSC cruise ship suffered an engine failure off the island of Ponza in the Pontine Archipelago, south of Rome, early Monday morning.
The MSC World Europa, sailing from Genoa to Naples with 8,585 people on board—6,496 passengers and 2,089 crew—reported an electrical malfunction in its engines at 7:25 a.m., approximately eight nautical miles from Ponza, according to the Italian Coast Guard.
Authorities confirmed that conditions on board remain calm. Favorable weather and sea states have aided the situation, while onboard generators continue to provide essential passenger services.
Two tugboats, dispatched from the ports of Gioia Tauro and Naples, are en route to assist the vessel and ensure its safe arrival at Naples.
The Coast Guard continues to monitor operations closely.
