Coast Guard Detains MSC Poesia Cruise Ship in Miami

Passengers aboard the MSC Poesia remain at the Port of Miami after the US Coast Guard detained the cruise ship for an inspection on Sunday. The vessel's departure has been delayed while officials verify its compliance with international maritime standards and US regulations.

The Coast Guard's Miami sector ordered the detention to allow inspection teams to examine the vessel. Coast Guard officials confirmed the situation in statements provided to CBS News on Monday.

The inspection is focused on determining whether the cruise ship meets applicable international requirements and US regulatory standards. Its itinerary remains on hold while the examination continues.

In a statement to CBS News, the Coast Guard explained the purpose of the inspection and the responsibilities of maritime authorities.

"are verifying the cruise ship's compliance with international standards and U.S. regulations." the Coast Guard said.

The agency also emphasized that protecting passengers, crew members, the vessel and the surrounding environment remains a priority for the Captain of the Port.

"The Coast Guard is tasked with verifying safe and secure commerce. It is the Captain of the Port's priority to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, the vessel, and the environment," the Coast Guard said.

MSC Cruises confirmed that the vessel's scheduled departure had been postponed because of the inspection. The company said the examination was taking place while the ship remained docked at the port.

In its statement to CBS News, MSC Cruises described the reason for the delay.

"The departure of MSC Poesia has been delayed while the U.S. Coast Guard conducts an inspection aboard the ship while it is docked in port." MSC Cruises said.

The cruise operator also confirmed that it was cooperating with the authorities and had not received clearance to provide further details about the ongoing process.

"We are fully cooperating with authorities as they complete their inspection. As this process is ongoing, we are unable to provide further information at this time," MSC Cruises said. "We are keeping guests informed of updates regarding the ship's anticipated departure and appreciate their continued patience and understanding."

According to MSC Cruises, the MSC Poesia can accommodate more than 3,200 passengers and has a crew of over 1,000 members. However, the company has not disclosed how many passengers and crew members were aboard when the Coast Guard detained the vessel.