MSC Lirica Tests Emergency Response in Ancona Drill

The MSC Lirica has carried out a major emergency exercise while berthed in Ancona, Italy designed to evaluate crew readiness, onboard systems, and coordination with local authorities.

Supervised by both the Port Authority and Coast Guard, the drill simulated a severe fire outbreak in the ship’s main galley, escalating to a full-scale emergency and eventual vessel evacuation. More than 400 multinational crew members from various departments participated as both responders and mock casualties during the exercise.

The exercise began at 15:00, when an onboard fire alarm signaled the start of the scenario. The simulated blaze, originating in the galley, was treated as beyond control through standard firefighting measures. Under the direction of Captain Marco Franza, the ship’s command declared a general emergency and initiated abandon-ship procedures.

Three lifeboats, each designed to hold 150 people, were deployed in realistic evacuation conditions. Crew boarded the lifeboats, maneuvering away from the vessel under the watch of a Coast Guard search-and-rescue ship. The operation replicated an emergency occurring within Ancona’s internal waters, rather than a standard moored situation.

Throughout the exercise, the Port Authority and Coast Guard monitored the operation closely, ensuring compliance with international maritime safety protocols for vessels operating in Italian ports.

On the bridge, Admiral Inspector Vincenzo Vitale, Port Commander and Maritime Director for the Marche Region, led the oversight team specializing in navigation safety. Officials praised the drill’s design, noting that it not only tested shipboard systems but also challenged coordination across multiple agencies.

They emphasized that modern cruise ships like the MSC Lirica are built with advanced fire-containment technology, dividing vessels into vertical safety zones that prevent flames from spreading horizontally. Both active and passive fire protection systems, combined with trained personnel, are crucial to controlling such incidents.

Admiral Vitale noted that this Ancona drill exceeded typical emergency training, simulating a complex, port-based scenario to push response teams to their limits. He commended Captain Franza and his crew, stating that the captain “managed it perfectly, adhering to the strictest international maritime distress procedures,” and extended appreciation to all crew and partner agencies for their cooperation.

Following the exercise, Captain Franza expressed pride in his crew’s performance and reaffirmed the company’s dedication to safety:

“Safety on board is our top priority. I’m very proud of our team, whose professionalism and skill during the drill were excellent.”

He added that while onboard drills are a regular part of crew training, joint exercises with external agencies like the Port Authority bring immense value by improving communication and teamwork across all emergency response units.

“Only by practicing together can we strengthen relationships and communication among all stakeholders, ensuring the fastest, most coordinated response in real emergencies,” he said.

Captain Franza also thanked Admiral Vitale, the Ancona Port Authority, and members of the press for their support and collaboration, noting that exercises like these play a vital role in maintaining the highest standards of maritime safety.