In the early afternoon of February 6th, 2026, authorities in Civitavecchia Port/Rome responded to an incident involving a passenger from the Costa Smeralda ship who fell from the side of the vessel onto the pier.
Smeralda was berthed at Pier 12 at the time, engaged in routine operations, when the middle-aged German national fell a considerable distance to the quayside.
Initial reports classified the event as a deliberate act following a preliminary assessment by port police and the Coast Guard, although formal inquiries into the precise circumstances remained ongoing.
Emergency responders, including firefighters already deployed for a separate medical evacuation on board, initiated resuscitation efforts in conjunction with the ship’s medical personnel. An emergency medical doctor later confirmed the passenger’s death at the scene.
Costa Cruises notified the relevant authorities and extended sympathy to the deceased’s family, noting that crew and emergency procedures were activated promptly following the occurrence.
After completion of the requisite checks by local authorities and the absence of further requirements for onboard inspections, Costa Smeralda was cleared to resume its scheduled itinerary later that evening.
For more Costa Smeralda incidents and accidents, see the ship's CruiseMinus page.