The ship had multiple waterproof compartments breached. Possibly/probably more than would allow it to continue afloat. The captain (probably crew) would have one choice, ground the ship to prevent sinking.
the ship was grounded, with people on board having no idea where they were or close to shore or what was going on. All the while the ship was tilting.
Also remember lifeboats are also those inflating types. Those barrels on the side launch out and inflate into boats.
once the ship “grounded” those that realized the ship was not moving any more could sit and wait. IF you could figure this out.
In the meantime the crew, probably has a few unreported dead, and passengers are limited in their recourses. There is a ONE YEAR statute of limitations, no right to jury trial b/c of the ticket waiver, probably a binding arbitration clause, AND the crew has to have their case in their home treaty nations.
Costa cruise line is always suspect even if it is a subdivision of carnival.
I saw a lawyer who specializes in maritime law on FNC the other day. IIRC, due to the contract the passengers accepted when purchasing their tickets and a couple of treaties, passengers are pretty well screwed when it comes to litigation. Folks should do some homework before taking a cruise.