Ep 1. Costa Concordia Disaster: One Year On

The National Geographic Documentaries season 2013 episode 1 is titled "Costa Concordia Disaster: One Year On," and it is a portrayal of the infamous shipwreck of the Italian cruise liner Costa Concordia that took the world by storm in 2012. The episode not only explains how the disaster occurred but also the aftermath of the event that cost the lives of over 30 passengers and crew.

It starts with a short introduction that puts the disaster into perspective, highlighting the size of the ship and its luxury features. It then goes into detail of the events that led to the accident, using simulations and archival footage to explain how the captain took the ship off course and hit a rock. The incident caused the ship to capsize, and it started to sink within hours, causing confusion and chaos amongst the passengers.

The documentary showcases the heroic efforts of the crew and the rescue team, who made sure to get everyone out of the ship safely. The survivors are interviewed, and they recount their experiences and the impact the disaster had on their lives. One passenger describes his terror as he had to jump overboard into an inflatable lifeboat while the ship was still sinking.

The episode then moves on to explain the extensive salvage operation that took place to retrieve the ship and the ecological and environmental risks that it posed. A team of engineers and divers are portrayed as they work tirelessly to pump out the water and refloat the vessel safely.

The aftermath of the disaster is discussed, with the documentary touching on the criminal proceedings against the captain and the legal battle between the survivors and the owners of the ship. The documentary also sheds light on the psychological impact of the disaster on the survivors and the families of the victims and how they are coping with the tragedy.

Overall, the episode excels in providing a comprehensive account of the Costa Concordia disaster. It is informative, unbiased, and respectful of the victims of the tragedy. The documentary not only sheds light on the technical details of the accident but also the human cost of it. It is an insightful and thought-provoking documentary that serves as a warning about the potential dangers of a massive cruise liner and the importance of safety and caution at all times.