MSC World Europa Cruise Ship Loses Propulsion Off Italy Coast with Over 6,000 Passengers Onboard

Ponza, Italy – August 25, 2025 — The MSC World Europa, one of the world’s largest and most advanced cruise ships, experienced a sudden loss of propulsion off the coast of Italy, leaving more than 6,400 passengers and 2,000 crew members temporarily adrift in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

What Happened?

The incident occurred early Monday morning, approximately eight nautical miles southwest of Ponza, while the vessel was en route from Genoa to Naples. According to the Italian Coast Guard, the propulsion failure was caused by an electrical issue affecting the ship’s engines.

Despite the loss of propulsion, essential services remained operational thanks to backup generators. These systems ensured lighting, air conditioning, kitchens, and safety mechanisms continued functioning, keeping passengers safe and comfortable during the disruption.

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Coast Guard Response and Recovery

The Italian Coast Guard quickly deployed tugboats, patrol vessels, and a helicopter to monitor the situation. Fortunately, weather and sea conditions were favorable, and no injuries or panic were reported onboard.

By the afternoon, partial propulsion was restored, allowing the ship to resume its course toward Naples. The vessel arrived at port approximately eight hours behind schedule and underwent a technical inspection before continuing its itinerary.

About MSC World Europa

Launched in 2022, the MSC World Europa is the first LNG-powered cruise ship in MSC’s fleet and part of the company’s new World Class series. The ship boasts a gross tonnage of 215,863, with capacity for over 6,700 guests and 2,100 crew. It features cutting-edge environmental technologies and luxury amenities across 22 decks.

What’s Next?

MSC Cruises confirmed that the ship resumed its Mediterranean itinerary, stopping in Messina, Sicily, before continuing to Valletta, Malta. The cruise line emphasized that passenger safety was never compromised, and all guests were kept informed throughout the incident.

Sources

1. 1. Cruise Hive
      
      • • Title: Coast Guard Responds After Giant MSC Cruise Ship Loses Propulsion
      • • Summary: Covers the timeline of the incident, passenger experience, and technical inspection in Naples.
      • • Link: Read the article

1. 1. MSN / USA Today
      
      • • Title: MSC cruise ship loses propulsion off Italy coast with over 6,000 passengers
      • • Summary: Provides official statements from MSC Cruises and the Italian Coast Guard.
      • • Link: Read the article

1. 1. Adept.Travel
      
      • • Title: MSC World Europa propulsion loss, 8,585 aboard
      • • Summary: Offers a detailed breakdown of the incident, passenger impact, and itinerary adjustments.
      • • Link: Read the article