On 12th June, at midday, a newly built ferry named Audace declared an emergency, reporting an imminent risk of sinking in the eastern part of the Gulf of Trieste.
In response, all available resources, including the Italian Coast Guard, multiple police units, and the fire brigade, were deployed.
The ferry had 76 passengers, including five children, and four crew members on board.
The coordinated efforts of the agencies ensured the safe evacuation of all passengers into life rafts, who were then transferred to shore on patrol boats. Authorities proudly stated that there were no serious injuries.
While no official cause for the incident was given, some speculated that a wave may have swamped the 22.5-meter (74-foot) passenger ferry. The ferry was on its route along the eastern coast, traveling between Trieste and Grado, a trip that takes about an hour and a half as part of the public transit system.
Media reports noted that ambulances and medical teams were also on hand, with six people taken to the hospital as a precaution.
Despite its precarious position, the ferry remained afloat. Teams worked with a tugboat to bring the vessel to port.
MayDay oggi alla #GuardiaCostiera di #Trieste. La nave passeggeri Audace imbarcava acqua con 76 persone in navigazione tra Trieste e Grado. Soccorso coordinato dalla Guardia Costiera di Trieste con mezzi navali e un aereo della Guardia Costiera. Tutti in salvo e nessun ferito pic.twitter.com/HMKMBLROQM
— Guardia Costiera (@guardiacostiera) June 12, 2024
