A group of Samoan seafarers aboard MSC Splendida is receiving widespread praise after a dramatic rescue operation off the coast of Mallorca saved 19 migrants from drowning, including two young children. The rescue took place on Sunday, October 26, 2025, approximately 20 nautical miles off Cabrera in the Balearic Islands.
According to Spain’s central government representation in the Balearics, the cruise ship responded to an alert regarding an overcrowded and distressed small boat carrying migrants from the Maghreb region of North Africa. Passengers and crew captured images of the desperate scene as several individuals were seen struggling in the open water and attempting to climb a ladder lowered from the ship’s side.
Thanks to the quick and coordinated efforts of the ship’s safety team and crew, all 19 migrants were successfully pulled aboard during a rescue that reportedly lasted 31 minutes in rough sea conditions. The group consisted of 16 men, one woman, and two young children, a three-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy.
Crew Recognized for Heroism
The brave Samoan seafarers who carried out the rescue were formally acknowledged by Samoa Shipping Services (SSS), which serves as the sailors’ crew agency. The following individuals were credited for their decisive actions:
Willie Roy, Sanele Tuilagi, Apineru Urima, Eikomene Tagaloa, Eferona Matafeo, John Mark Tauiliili, Pale Tafaeono, Toe Junior Togatuki, Faamotu Puleitu, Faafili Tauailoto, Patelesio Ioane Tafunai, Avau Pulepule, Sosiua Junior Folasa, and Matureo Lualua Tautu.
To show appreciation for their bravery, Captain Giuseppe Maresca and Safety Officer Antonio Bovento hosted a special dinner in the Captain’s Lounge, personally thanking the team for their professionalism, calm response, and humanity under pressure.
Migrants Safely Transported to Barcelona
In an effort to minimize disruption for guests, the migrants remained aboard MSC Splendida until the ship’s scheduled arrival in Barcelona, where they were transferred to local authorities and placed under the care of social services.
“Vital Role in Maritime Safety”
SSS issued a statement praising the Samoan crew for upholding the long-standing maritime tradition of responding to people in distress at sea:
This rescue truly highlights the vital role our Samoan seafarers play in international maritime safety.
The lifesaving intervention has also struck an emotional chord within the Samoan community, with social media posts celebrating the seafarers’ courage and honoring the humanitarian work carried out far from home.
Photo Credit: Bennona Leilemalefaga
