The maritime catastrophe of January 13, 2012, involving the cruise ship Costa Concordia, had a lasting effect on the cruise industry and safety laws. Costa Cruises’ vessel grounded itself near Giglio Island in Italian waters. Francesco Schettino, the ship’s skipper, veered off the course and ran into a reef.

The ship’s hull was ripped open by the hit, and the Costa Concordia capsized as a result. Thirty-two lives were lost in the tragedy, and questions were made regarding crew training, emergency procedures, and captain responsibility. Over the course of the next two years, a massive and intricate salvage effort was conducted.

After the tragedy with the Costa Concordia, cruise ship safety procedures came under closer scrutiny, and new policies were implemented with a stronger emphasis on passenger security. This tragedy should serve as a sobering reminder of the need for strict safety procedures to be maintained in the marine industry.