Norwegian Epic rescues 63 migrants from overcrowded Ionian Sea sailboat

On October 22, 2023, the Norwegian Epic, a cruise ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, rescued 63 people from an overcrowded sailboat in the Ionian Sea. The rescue operation was coordinated by the Hellenic Coast Guard and the ship diverted from its planned route between Italy and Greece to carry out the mission about 65 nautical miles southwest of Zakynthos. Those rescued received immediate medical evaluations, food, and shelter aboard the vessel before being safely handed over to Greek authorities at the port of Kalamata the following morning. Passengers on the Norwegian Epic reported that the rescue lasted several hours, and a ship tender was used to transfer the migrants from the approximately 30-foot sailboat. The incident highlights the critical role cruise ships can play in maritime safety and emergency response, cooperating closely with local coast guard and rescue coordination centers. This event also underscores ongoing challenges in the Mediterranean migration route, where overcrowded and unsafe boats are frequently encountered.