Durban family seeks answers after crew member dies aboard MSC Euribia

The family of a South African crew member who died aboard MSC Euribia is seeking further information about his final hours and medical treatment.

Laeeq Adams, 21, from Durban, died aboard the MSC Cruises ship on 18 October 2025 while working as an assistant waiter.

His mother, Zenith Adams, told News24 the family remained concerned about the circumstances surrounding his death and wanted greater clarity over the medical care he received before his condition deteriorated.

MSC Cruises said Adams suffered a sudden deterioration followed by cardiac arrest and could not be revived by the ship’s medical team.

“We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of our colleague, Laeeq Adams, and once again extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones,” MSC Cruises said.

“In the early hours of October 18, 2025, Laeeq experienced a sudden deterioration in his condition and subsequently suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite the best efforts of the onboard medical team, they were unfortunately unable to revive him.”

Adams had joined MSC Cruises in April 2025 and had been working aboard MSC Euribia for seven months. It was his first contract at sea.

His mother said he had become ill in the days before his death and that the family had been told he initially experienced a fever and sore throat before later vomiting.

According to his mother, a post-mortem examination recorded acute lung injury, while the family was still awaiting the results of toxicology testing.

She said the family wanted more information about what happened during the period immediately preceding his death, including the progression of his illness and the treatment he received.

Adams also raised concerns about communication with the family and aspects of the repatriation and funeral process.

MSC Cruises said procedures following an onboard death include medical attendance, reporting the death to the relevant authorities, notifying family representatives, preserving the deceased’s dignity, and arranging repatriation in accordance with applicable requirements.

The company said it assisted with the repatriation of Adams’ body to South Africa and offered support towards burial and funeral expenses as well as customary 40- and 100-day memorial ceremonies.

MSC Cruises also said it made donations to two schools nominated by the family in Adams’ name.

The company acknowledged that some of his personal belongings could not be located and said it compensated his family for their value, alongside an additional ex gratia payment.

MSC Cruises rejected claims that it had refused the family access to personnel or other records, saying such requests were subject to regulatory procedures.

The cruise line said it had requested a copy of Adams’ official death certificate to progress the request and had received the document during the past week.

“Throughout the period following Laeeq’s passing, we have remained in regular communication with the family and sought to accommodate their requests wherever reasonably possible,” MSC Cruises said.

Adams was buried on 31 October 2025. His mother said she hoped greater transparency and clearer communication procedures following deaths at sea could help other families facing similar circumstances.