A tragic incident was avoided at MSC Cruises' private Bahamian island Ocean Cay thanks to the courageous actions of Officer Giuseppe Ruocco. He saved a woman from drowning after she fell into the sea during the disembarkation from MSC Meraviglia ship visiting the island.
The incident unfolded when a female passenger accidentally fell into the water between the ship and the dock.
Acting swiftly, the MSC officer didn't hesitate and jumped into the water to rescue the distressed woman. The officer kept her head above water and assisted her along the length of the ship to the stern, where a rescue team assisted. Throughout this ordeal, the woman's family (husband and children) cried out in distress.
The "man overboard"/MOB signal was activated, prompting the rescue team to spring into action.
The woman was successfully recovered within minutes, thanks to the selfless and daring act of Officer Ruocco, who risked his own life to save her. He received a lengthy applause from the ship's Master (Captain Stefano Aiello) and the crew for his heroic efforts.
The following letter has been distributed among MSC HR Leaders:
"Today at Meraviglia's port of call at Ocean Cay, a guest accidentally fell into water between the ship and dock and without a second tought, our Training Officer Giuseppe Ruocco jumped into the water to help the distressed guest. Man overboard signal was given and our fully trained team was present in no time to help the guest out of water.
We wish our guest a speedy recovery as the incident was controlled in just a couple of minutes because of Giuseppe's brave reaction in no time. He risked his life to save a life.
Giuseppe proudly resonates the MSC Value "We CARE for our people."
For more MSC Meraviglia incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.