Norwegian Cruise Line and other cruise companies faced significant challenges over a recent windy weekend that led to several incidents at ports around the world. On May 30 and 31, unusually high winds, gusting up to 69 miles per hour, impacted multiple cruise ships docked across various locations, prompting concerns for passenger safety.
In Alaska, the Holland America ship Westerdam experienced severe winds that resulted in a gangway being knocked into the water while docked in Ketchikan. Fortunately, the quick response of tugboats helped bring the ship back alongside the pier without any injuries reported, while a crane was utilized to retrieve the gangway for reboarding.
In a separate incident in Sicily, a passenger aboard the Norwegian Epic fell into the water when the ship began to drift away from the pier due to strong winds that caused a mooring bollard to fail. The passenger was rescued by her husband, and while they were treated for minor injuries, the ship’s departure from port was delayed.
Additionally, an MSC ship also broke free from its dock during a squall at Ocean Cay, resulting in another injury to a guest. These events underscore the importance of crew training in effectively managing potential emergencies caused by extreme weather conditions.
In light of these incidents, cruise lines are reminded of the paramount importance of safety in operations. Moreover, Carnival Cruise Line is bolstering its safety policies throughout its fleet with stricter rules aimed at enhancing passenger safety on board, including curfews and fines for specific violations.
Despite these challenges, the swift actions of crew members and port personnel have proven effective in preventing more serious incidents. As cruise lines continue to navigate seasonal weather, prioritizing safety remains crucial for both passengers and crew members.