Costa Smeralda in Marseille: Bomb Threat Suspends Shore Leave

The trigger for this incident was an unattended piece of luggage. French security authorities respond to such situations with absolute zero tolerance, following strict protocols. As soon as a suspicious package is reported, an automatic process is initiated, requiring immediate cordoning off of the area. Additionally, because the Costa Smeralda is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the necessary safety and evacuation zones around the ship are significantly larger than those for conventionally powered vessels.

For the passengers, this primarily meant waiting times and frustration. The Costa Smeralda utilizes the interporting model in the Mediterranean, where guests embark and disembark at almost every port. Consequently, hundreds of vacationers were stuck in the terminal, in their tour buses, or on the ship, as the gangways remained completely blocked for security reasons. Meanwhile, the crew on board routinely prepared for all eventualities.

Fortunately, the all-clear was eventually given, as it was a false alarm—most likely triggered by a simply forgotten suitcase. Incidents like this clearly demonstrate how sensitively and effectively modern maritime security concepts operate. After the police measures were concluded, the ship was able to safely continue its journey toward Barcelona.