Sorrento Ferry Fire

On 28 April 2015 the ferry boat Sorrento, owned by the Italian shipping company, the Grimaldi Group, and operated by Transmediterranea – Acciona, caught fire while sailing with 152 passengers from Palma to Valencia, Spain.

This is sadly reminiscent of the recent ferry fire on the Norman Atlantic, although thankfully there were no reported deaths on the Sorrento. The Norman Atlantic was a sister vessel to the Sorrento, being of the same model and specifications and from the same shipyard. Like the Norman Atlantic, this ship’s classification and safety management certificates were made by RINA S.p.A. (Registro Italiano Navale). Fortunately the passengers were rescued, but there may be claims for injuries, moral damages, and material damages. On board the Sorrento were passengers from Spain, Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, China, Colombia, Ecuador, Senegal, Argentina, Albania, Australia, and the Philippines. Global Justice Network members are evaluating the potential claims scenario.