Panic and chaos swept through the decks of a Marella Cruises ship late Monday night after a sudden fire erupted in the vessel’s engine room, forcing passengers and crew into a desperate scramble for safety. Witnesses described scenes of terror as alarms blared and thick black smoke began to spread through several corridors of the ship.
The incident occurred while the vessel was sailing in the Mediterranean Sea, just hours after departing from Palma de Mallorca. According to early reports, the blaze is believed to have started following a mechanical failure that led to a powerful explosion in one of the ship’s main engines. Passengers reported hearing a loud bang before the lights flickered and emergency sirens were activated.
Crew members immediately initiated emergency protocols, rushing to guide guests to designated muster stations as firefighters on board battled the rapidly spreading flames. “It was total panic — people were crying, others grabbing life jackets, and the smell of smoke was everywhere,” said one passenger, still shaken by the terrifying ordeal.
Authorities have confirmed that the fire was eventually contained after nearly two hours, thanks to the swift response of the crew and support from nearby rescue vessels. However, several sections of the ship suffered extensive damage, and at least seven people were treated for smoke inhalation, though no fatalities have been reported at this time.
Emergency services from coastal authorities in Spain and Italy were dispatched to assist the stricken liner, and passengers were later evacuated to nearby ports. Maritime investigators have launched an immediate probe to determine the exact cause of the explosion and whether maintenance issues or electrical faults played a role.
In an official statement, Marella Cruises said: “Our team acted swiftly to manage a fire incident that occurred in one of our engine rooms. The safety and well-being of our guests and crew remain our top priority. We are cooperating fully with authorities to investigate the cause.”
The dramatic fire has sent shockwaves across the cruising community, raising fresh concerns about ship safety and onboard maintenance standards. For the hundreds of passengers aboard what was meant to be a dream voyage, it was a night of fear, confusion, and relief — one they will never forget.
