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Tag: Cruise ship

Viking Vela

Viking Vela

Viking Vela
Photo: rbnett.no

On January 13, the 240 meter long, 47800 gt passenger ship Viking Vela (IMO: 9852432) sustained damage on the North Sea. The Viking Vela was headed to Narvik, Norway from Ijmuiden, Holland when it encountered weather worse than forecasted. The vessel was rocked by severe weather with waves reaching 35 feet and winds over 100 miles-per-hours.  Reports state many of the passengers had sustained minor injuries caused by the heavy swells. Passengers stated that furniture was tossed about with beds, tables and luggage strewn on the floor.

The vessel also sustained some damage. The crew alerted Norwegian authorities that it had issues with its propulsion.  One of the thrusters reported a wear alarm which required attention and the vessel diverted to the safety of Ålesund. Escorted by two tugs, the Viking Vela was able to reach port safely.  No further details of the extent of damage to the thruster was reported.

Reports state the vessel extended its stay at Ålesund for several more days.  As of January 16, the vessel remained in port stating it was too rough to continue.  Passengers have received a partial refund as it has cancelled part of the voyage.

Rhein Melodie

Rhein Melodie

Rhein Melodie
Photo: deorkaan.nl

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.

Mediterranea

Mediterranea

Mediterranea
Photo: imbc.com

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.