A Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Costa Toscana ended in heartbreak for one family, as a two-year-old boy tragically died mid-voyage between Civitavecchia and Savona.
The young child, travelling with his parents, collapsed unexpectedly on board the 6,554-guest cruise ship on the evening of 17th May or early morning of 18th May 2025.
Despite the best efforts of the ship’s medical team, the toddler could not be revived, even after hours of emergency care.
Italian news outlet Notizie reported that the boy appeared to be in good health and had been playing when he suddenly collapsed.
His parents, Chinese nationals residing in France, later shared that he had undergone heart surgery in the past.
While they believed he was recovering well, early indications suggest he may have suffered a fatal cardiac event linked to a pre-existing condition.
While it is not confirmed whether a medical evacuation was requested, there was no interception by a rescue aircraft during the voyage.
The ship’s medical centre would have been well-equipped with advanced emergency equipment, including defibrillators, oxygen, and cardiac monitors.
Sadly, even with swift and professional intervention, the child could not be saved.
The parents were given a private space to remain with their son until the ship arrived in Savona at approximately 8:30 am on 18th May.
Authorities Board in Savona
Upon arrival, local authorities boarded Costa Toscana to conduct standard investigations, which occur any time there is a death at sea.
Interviews were held with the family, medical personnel, and any witnesses to the event. The child’s body was removed from the vessel and will be repatriated to France.
While the family’s holiday ended in unimaginable sorrow, the itinerary for the ship and her other guests remained unchanged.
The cruise line has not released an official statement, and out of respect for their privacy, the family has not been publicly identified.
Another Loss at Sea on the Same Weekend
This tragic news comes just as Princess Cruises confirmed the sudden death of one of its most experienced captains.
Captain Michele Bartolomei passed away from a medical emergency aboard Diamond Princess on 19 May, while the ship was docked overnight in Keelung, Taiwan.
Captain Bartolomei was nearing 30 years of service with Princess Cruises and was widely respected by his colleagues and guests alike.
His passing was announced to passengers the next morning.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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