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On September 25, 2018, a critical medical emergency unfolded 21 miles northeast of Denia when Spain's maritime rescue service, Salvamento Marítimo, was called to action. A passenger aboard the Cruise Smeralda sustained a significant cut to their hand, prompting the ship's doctor to urgently request an air medevac. Responding swiftly, the Helimer 219 rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene. The helicopter crews successfully hoisted the injured individual from the ferry, subsequently transporting them to Valencia airport. Upon arrival, an ambulance was waiting to provide immediate medical assistance and facilitate further treatment at a local hospital. For a glimpse of the rescue operation, you can view the video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/1044615378280828928.

On July 29, 2017, at 6 a.m., the Cruise Smeralda experienced a significant incident when it collided with a concrete pylon located at the entrance of the Livorno harbor. This unfortunate event was attributed to an electrical malfunction onboard the vessel. The Cruise Smeralda, which had recently set sail from Olbia, was subsequently towed and secured at the Grimaldi dock for further assessment of the damage, which was reported to be considerable. Despite the mishap, nearly 900 passengers, comprising tourists and transport truckers destined for Olbia, were permitted to board the ferry shortly after the incident at around 8:30 a.m. However, conditions onboard were less than ideal, as the ship lacked air conditioning. Passengers were ultimately disembarked by approximately 12:30 p.m., at which point the ferry company officially announced the cancellation of the intended sailing. In light of the situation, Grimaldi offered some stranded travelers a refund for their tickets, while others were provided with alternative travel arrangements through different companies. As of July 31, the Cruise Smeralda remained docked at the Terminal Darsene Toscana in Livorno, awaiting further developments. For more details, please refer to the Italian news report with accompanying photo: http://www.lanuovasardegna.it/olbia/cronaca/2017/07/29/news/secondo-incidente-per-la-smeralda-900-passeggeri-bloccati-1.15672664.

The renowned Greek ferry, IKARUS PALACE, part of MINOAN LINES, has returned to its roots, stepping in for the KNOSSOS PALACE, which is currently undergoing drydocking in Syros. The ferry is now operating on the crucial route connecting Piraeus to Heraklion in Crete. Prior to this redeployment, IKARUS PALACE spent approximately two years servicing the routes between Livorno, Barcelona, and Tanger for GRIMALDI LINES.