On board theCosta Concordia, thousands of passengers were dining and drinking, and perhaps, trying their luck in the casino.
It was Jan. 16, 2012 on the luxury cruise liner, sailing in the Mediterranean off the Italian coast. The ship held about 3,200 passengers and 1,000 crew members.
It was supposed to be a voyage of relaxation, and forgetting about life. But then the 951-foot vessel gave a shudder, and began to lean to one side.
“I would be scared out of my wits. I would probably panic and just make it harder for everyone,” said Daniel Henderson, 9.
On the contrary, many passengers gave it no regard, but there was plenty to worry about. The Concordia had struck rocks off Italy's Giglio Island and was taking on water.
As it dawned on them that something was wrong, passengers headed toward the lifeboats.
“I cannot imagine the amount of fear and anxiety a person would face in such a situation. It would be terrifying,” said Nimit Desai, 10.
Chaos quickly ensued as guests rushed to fill the lifeboats and escape the ship.
Lifeboats on the ship's higher side became stuck, leaving people suspended in mid-air.
Some passengers braved the water, with a temperature of about 57 degrees, and swam to safety, while others had no choice as they fell into the chilly water.
On shore, sirens blared as some of the 20 injured were taken to hospitals. Helicopters plucked some passengers off the ship's decks.
Many of those rescued were taken to churches and other buildings for shelter. Cruise passengers are required by law to attend a safety briefing within 24 hours of embarkation.
As the Concordia came to rest on its side, a huge gash in its hull, rescue efforts were launched to locate those left unaccounted for, with rescuers working underwater in near-total darkness to scour the ship, which has 17 decks and some 1,500 cabins, eight bars, five restaurants, four swimming pools and a casino.
Three survivors were found: an Italian purser and two South Korean honeymooners.
However, others were not so lucky. Several were found dead with the search continuing, but many are keeping high hopes of finding their friends and family safe.
“Along with the worry that the passengers faced, the concern that the friends and families are facing must be just as terrifying,” said Brennon Shanks, 9.
