A major emergency unfolded aboard a Carnival cruise ship on Friday evening after a fire broke out in the engine room, prompting a mass evacuation of passengers and crew. The ship, identified as the Carnival Radiance, was sailing off the coast of Florida when the blaze was detected.
Passengers described scenes of panic as alarms blared and crew members rushed to enforce safety protocols. Smoke quickly spread to several decks, leading to the evacuation of over 3,000 passengers using lifeboats and emergency slides. Fortunately, the fire was brought under control within hours by the ship’s firefighting team, with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that no fatalities were reported, but several passengers suffered from smoke inhalation and minor injuries. Emergency medical services were waiting at the port to assist the injured upon evacuation.
An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the fire. The Carnival Radiance will remain docked until safety inspections are completed. Passengers will be provided with full refunds and additional compensation, the company said.
This incident raises fresh concerns over cruise ship safety measures and emergency preparedness in high-seas scenarios.
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