WATCH the dramatic footage capturing the moment a Mediterranean cruise ship saves drowning migrants trying to reach Spain.
The rescue unfolded near the island of Cabrera, just off Mallorca in the Balearic Islands.
Those on board cling onto the side of the ship for stability
There are repeated attempts to climb the ship’s ladder
At around 4pm, the MSC Splendida spotted a small dinghy adrift roughly 20 miles from shore after being alerted by authorities, who directed the ship to assist as it was the closest vessel in the area.
Maritime law also required the cruise liner to respond, as ships must provide aid to anyone in distress at sea.
The dinghy was visibly overcrowded, with many passengers clinging to its sides to avoid falling into the water.
As the Splendida approached, several migrants jumped into the sea to reach life jackets thrown by crew members.
Battling rough waves on a windy, overcast afternoon, they repeatedly tried to climb the ship’s ladder, only to be knocked back by the current.
Passengers and staff on board worked together to bring the group to safety, throwing life rings and helping haul the exhausted migrants aboard.
Once on deck, the rescued group were provided with food, clothing, and a place to sleep.
Captain Giuseppe Maresca praised his crew’s professionalism and composure during the operation, saying: “Every sailor puts safety above all else, and saving lives is part of our DNA.”
“My crew acted with professionalism and dedication to ensure that this rescue was carried out safely, even in difficult conditions.
“I am very proud of them and their professional and supportive response.”
Many passengers watched on in disbelief as the rescue unfolded during the final day of their voyage.
One traveller, who filmed the incident, wrote online: “During the last day of our cruise, a boat with 18 souls on board and three children were rescued in the middles of the med sea.
“These people, probably in the sea for days, were looking for a future escaping their hostile country.
“Luckily, we were there. Not many were so lucky.
“Thanks to the professionals of MSC Splendida, they are now safe.”
According to reports, all those rescued were of Maghreb origin.
In total, the Splendida, which was carrying 5,733 passengers, rescued 17 adults and two children.
Once everyone was safely aboard, the ship continued its planned route to Barcelona to avoid disrupting its schedule.
Upon arrival, the migrants were handed over to local authorities and social services for processing.
A government delegation in Catalonia confirmed the details of the rescue and noted that the incident occurred on the same day four boats attempted to reach the Balearic Islands.
Three of those vessels managed to arrive on the coast of Formentera.
This was not the first time MSC had been involved in such an operation.
Just a year ago, another of the company’s ships, the MSC World Europa, rescued 12 Algerian migrants.
The MSC Splendida rescued 17 adults and two childrenCredit: Getty 
