A cruise terminal in Marseille was temporarily evacuated Sunday morning after unattended luggage triggered a security alert, briefly halting operations for passengers traveling on the Costa Smeralda.
According to German cruise outlet Schiffe-und-kreuzfahrten, the incident began when abandoned baggage was discovered inside the terminal, prompting authorities to activate standard security procedures similar to those used at airports and major rail stations.
Explosive detection dogs were deployed and reportedly alerted to the luggage, raising concerns it could pose a threat. As a precaution, officials ordered a full evacuation of the terminal and suspended both embarkation and disembarkation operations. Passengers were prevented from entering or leaving the facility while police and fire crews responded to the scene.
Guests already onboard the Costa Smeralda, operated by Costa Crociere, were kept informed through multilingual announcements. At no point was there any reported risk to those on the vessel.
Specialized teams from French authorities later inspected the suspicious items and determined there was no danger. The alert was ultimately linked to two unattended backpacks, and the initial concern over possible explosives was ruled out.
Following the all-clear, emergency responders cleared the area and terminal operations gradually resumed. Shore excursions and passenger movements restarted, though some delays were reported as normal activity returned.
The incident highlights how quickly unattended items can trigger large-scale security responses in busy cruise ports. Officials routinely stress that luggage should never be left unattended, as even minor oversights can lead to significant disruptions.
The Costa Smeralda is scheduled to depart Marseille later today for Barcelona as part of a seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary. If delays cannot be fully recovered, the departure time may be slightly adjusted.
