Sunken Costa Concordia Refloated [Video]

The largest salvage operation in maritime history is nearing completion. The sunken cruise ship Costa Concordia was successfully refloated this morning off the coast of Italy. The vessel struck a reef and capsized two and a half years ago, killing 32 people. People gathered near the shore to watch the operation, and memorialize the victims of the shipwreck. AP reports, the ship will remain anchored until July 21st. Its stability will be asesssed during that time and any necessary ballast adjustments will be made. The ship will then be towed to Genova, where it will be scrapped. The entire operation will cost an estimated 2 billion dollars. The ship's captain faces criminal charges for manslaughter, deserting the ship while rescue operations were still underway, and causing the wreck.