In a stunning turn of events, the Marella Explorer, one of Marella Cruises’ flagship vessels, suffered a major engine failure while sailing through the Mediterranean late last night. The ship, carrying over 1,800 passengers and crew, lost propulsion unexpectedly, leaving it adrift for hours in open waters near the coast of Sardinia.
According to initial reports, passengers described chaotic scenes on board, with emergency alarms sounding and crew members rushing to assess the situation. Many travelers expressed frustration and fear, citing a lack of communication from the bridge during the early moments of the crisis.
“We were enjoying dinner when the lights flickered and the ship came to a dead stop,” said one passenger. “Then we heard a loud rumbling noise — people started panicking.”
Emergency backup systems reportedly restored basic power, but full propulsion has not yet been regained. Tugboats have been dispatched to assist the vessel, while Marella Cruises issued a brief statement confirming the incident and assuring that “all guests are safe and being well cared for.”
Experts are now questioning the ship’s maintenance protocols, as the Marella Explorer underwent a scheduled dry dock just months ago. An investigation is expected to begin immediately.