Cruise ship with Brazilians is detained in Barcelona for irregular passengers

A group of tourists experienced moments of uncertainty and frustration on board the MSC Armonia ship, which was held for almost an entire day in the port of Barcelona, ​​Spain, since last Tuesday (2). The trip, which was supposed to be a period of leisure and rest, turned into an impasse due to documentation issues for Bolivian passengers.

The cruise departed from Santos, São Paulo, and had an itinerary that included several Brazilian and European cities. However, the ship was unable to continue its journey from Malaga to Barcelona as planned.

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_{The ship was detained last Tuesday (2) (Photo: reproduction/Europa Press News/GettyImages Embed)}

Start of setbacks

The situation began to deteriorate in Portugal, where the ship was prevented from docking due to adverse weather conditions, according to announcements on board. Later, in Malaga, reports emerged of Bolivian passengers stranded at the port, a situation that was not resolved until arrival in Barcelona. Passengers were then informed that the Bolivians had been denied entry by Spain, resulting in the ship being detained and guests being restricted on board.

For those who would disembark in Rome, the company organized a charter flight. Passengers were allowed to disembark in Barcelona after the long wait. Those with destinations beyond Rome are still awaiting relocation to flights within Europe, with additional information promised to be provided.

Alleged coup on Bolivians

A group of 69 Bolivians face a difficult situation after purchasing a package that promised visa inclusion, for up to 10 thousand dollars. The company responsible for the cruise was accused by Spanish authorities of neglecting to check travelers' documents.

Among the detained passengers are 14 minors. The newspaper 'El País' reported that visa irregularities were identified during the sea journey, before arrival in Spain. Bolivia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement demanding respect for the rights of Bolivian citizens and urged the cruise company to present a quick solution to the impasse.

Featured photo: the ship is operated by the company MSC Cruzeiros (reproduction/Charly Triballeau/GettyImages Embed)