On September 3, the 132 meter long river cruise ship Rhein Melodie (MMSI: 21178140) suffered a fire near a quay on the Voorzaan Canal in Zaandam, Netherlands. Few details are reported on the incident. The fire was reported in the engine room resulting in some damage. No passengers were reported injured and all have departed from the vessel. Authorities detained the vessel while the crew made repairs. Reports state the Rhein Melodie departed for Amsterdam under its own power a few days later.
On August 14, the 292 meter long, 7500 dwt passenger cruise ship Mediterranea caught fire while arriving at pier 8 in Jeju, South Korea. The Mediterranea had departed from Tianjin, China when smoke was spotted near the engine room. A fire had started in a machine room caused by a mechanical failure in the air conditioning system. The fire while contained below decks had spewed out toxic smoke along large section of the starboard side of the vessel.
Fortunately, the crew was able to respond quickly to the blaze. An automated water sprinkler system was engaged and extinguished the fire. All passengers on board were safely disembarked with no reports of injuries to the 2436 passengers on board.
Three crew suffered smoke inhalation that received emergency treatment on site. The Korean Coast Guard and local fire deparment inspected the vessel for damage and concluded the Mediterranea was cleared to proceed on its next port of call at Fukoka, Japan. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On July 25, the 110 meter long river cruise ship Amadeus Classic allided with a bridge over the Van Starkenborgh Canal in Aduard, Netherlands. The Amadeus Classic was attempting to pass under the bridge when its rails on the top deck struck the underside of the bridge. The bridge sustained minimal damage, but the rails on the cruise ship were twisted and crushed. No reports of injures or pollution released. Reports state the water level in the canal was 20 centimeters higher than normal levels, but within normal operating conditions.
