Three passengers were medically evacuated from the cruise ship Mein Schiff 3 late last night while the vessel was sailing approximately 38 nautical miles (around 70 kilometers) south of the Port of Funchal, Portugal.

According to official information, the Search and Rescue Coordination Center received an alert from the cruise ship requesting the medical evacuation of three passengers. Following the request, maritime rescue assets were immediately mobilized.

A rescue vessel from the Maritime Search and Rescue, assigned to the Funchal Lifesaving Station, along with a vessel operated by SANAS Madeira, were dispatched to the scene. The passengers were transferred safely to shore, accompanied by the ship’s doctor.

Upon arrival on land, the passengers were assisted by a Rapid Intervention Medical Team and transported to a local hospital in two ambulances. The Local Maritime Police Command took charge of the incident.

Authorities have not disclosed details regarding the passengers’ medical conditions or the reasons for the evacuation.

At the time of the incident, Mein Schiff 3 was operating a 24-day round-trip cruise titled “Winterauszeit auf den Kanaren – Ab/Bis Bremerhaven”, themed around the New Year holiday.