The 176 meter long, 3498 dwt cruise passenger ship Astor allided with the pier at Melbourne, Australia. Strong winds pushed the Astor against the end of the pier. Tugs were dispatched and were able to stabilize the cruise ship. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Reports state wind gusts reached up to 100 km per hour.
The 210 meter long, 7000 dwt passenger cruise ship Seabourn Encore allided with the 118 meter long, 8465 dwt cement carrier Milburn Carrier II at Timaru, New Zealand. The Seabourn Encore had been moored at Timaru as passengers were returning from a windy day ashore. The strong winds with gusts reaching up to 45 knots caused all four stern mooring lines to snap.
The other mooring lines broke as winds pushed the Seabourn Encore away from the quay and across the harbor. The cruise ship eventually reach the other side of the harbor and struck the berthed Milburn Carrier II. The Milburn Carrier II and the Seabourn Encore sustained hull damage. The Seabourn Encore continue to drift and struck the opposite wharf. No reports of injuries.
Reports state the Seabourn Encore was detained while Maritime New Zealand and local authorities investigate the incident. Both the Milburn Carrier II and Seabourn Encore will be surveyed for damages.
The 294 meter long, 7500 dwt passenger cruise ship Norwegian Star became disabled off Inverloch, Australia. The Norwegian Star was on a cruise from Melbourne to New Zealand when it suffered engine failure causing the vessel to go adrift. The vessel’s generators remained operational providing power to facilities and bow thrusters, but not enough to reach port.
Three tugs were dispatched and towed the Norwegian Star to Melbourne for repairs. Passengers were disembarked and were given alternative transportation back to Auckland. No reports of injuries.
Reports state the Norwegian Star had suffered engine problems just prior to this voyage. The vessel had developed a fault in the engine and was forced to proceed at reduced speed.
