The shocking story of 'Total Fiasco: The Poop Cruise,' the new Netflix documentary

A new Netflix documentary, titled "Total Fiasco: The Poop Cruise," revisits one of the most infamous episodes in cruise ship history. Through eyewitness accounts, archival footage, and detailed analysis, the series chronicles how a dream cruise on the Carnival Triumph in February 2013 turned into a chaotic experience for more than 4,000 people trapped on board in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Carnival Triumph had set sail from Galveston, Texas, bound for Cozumel, Mexico. However, on February 10, 2013, an engine fire drastically altered the voyage.

Although the fire was quickly brought under control, it left the ship without power, resulting in the loss of essential services such as air conditioning, refrigeration, and functional bathrooms. This marked the beginning of a health and psychological crisis that lasted five days.

The collapse of the sanitation system was one of the most traumatic aspects for passengers. Sewage began leaking into the corridors and cabins, creating an unbearable odor.

People had to resort to red bio-waste bags provided by the crew and seek shelter on deck, enduring the humid heat.

The lack of refrigeration also affected the food supply, which was limited to basic sandwiches and vegetables, while water began to be rationed.

For five days, the Carnival Triumph drifted in the Gulf of Mexico until it was towed by vessels to the port of Mobile, Alabama. Images of passengers kissing the ground upon reaching land reflect the level of despair experienced on board.

Further investigation revealed that Carnival was aware of previous problems with the ship's generators and fuel lines, but decided to sail without addressing these critical issues. Records showed at least nine similar incidents in the two years prior to the voyage.

The Netflix documentary not only reconstructs the events with testimony from passengers and crew, but also explores the emotional and psychological aftermath of the incident.

It also examines how media coverage and public pressure forced the company to account. "Total Fiasco: The Poop Cruise" highlights the vulnerabilities of the cruise industry and the importance of ensuring passenger safety.

*This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from La Nación.