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Francesco SchettinoCaptain of the sunken cruise ship Costa Concordia
Date of Birth: 14.11.1960
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Captain of the Sunken Costa Concordia
- Career at Costa Crociere
- Costa Concordia Disaster
- Investigations and Legal Proceedings
- Professional and Personal Aspects
- Media Coverage and Aftermath
- Post-Disaster Consequences
- Family Life
Captain of the Sunken Costa Concordia
Francesco Schettino: Early Life and EducationFrancesco Schettino, born in 1960 in Naples, Italy, grew up in a seafaring family. Both his maternal ancestors and his father were involved in the maritime industry. His education took place at the L'Istituto Tecnico Nautico Nino Bixio in Piano di Sorrento, after which he embarked on his maritime career.
Career at Costa Crociere
Schettino's career in the cruise industry began in 2002, when he joined Costa Crociere, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation. He initially served as a safety officer and later as an assistant captain on the Serena. In 2006, he was promoted to captain of the Costa Concordia, a massive cruise liner with a capacity of 3,780 passengers.
Costa Concordia Disaster
On January 14, 2012, the Costa Concordia tragedy unfolded. Under Schettino's command, the ship veered off course and struck rocks, leading to its sinking off the coast of Giglio Island. Seventeen people lost their lives, and 15 went missing.
Investigations and Legal Proceedings
Following the disaster, Schettino faced allegations of manslaughter, causing a maritime disaster, and abandoning ship. He was initially arrested but later released to house arrest. Costa Crociere dismissed him from his position.
Professional and Personal Aspects
Prior to the Costa Concordia incident, Schettino's professional demeanor was described as rebellious and risk-taking. He had a reputation as a womanizer and enjoyed being photographed at the helm. However, some acquaintances also praised his maritime skills and experience.
Media Coverage and Aftermath
The Costa Concordia disaster was widely publicized, with Schettino becoming known as "Capitan Codardo" (Captain Coward). Recordings of his conversations with Gregorio De Falco, the captain of the Livorno port, became viral, particularly the phrase, "Vada a bordo, cazzo!" ("Get back on board, dammit!").
Post-Disaster Consequences
Schettino's reputation was tarnished, and he vowed to never command a ship again. The media attention and public outcry made him a highly polarizing figure in Italian society.
