Danube Collision off Dürnstein
On June 18, the 40 meter long passenger ship Austria Princess collided with the 73 meter long passenger ship Schönbrunn on the Danube near Dürnstein, Austria. The Schönbrunn was on a cruise from Krems to Dürnstein and back when it suffered rudder failure near Dürnstein. The vessel dropped anchor, but the current cause the anchor to drag allowing the Schönbrunn to gradually drift downstream. The Schönbrunn send out warning alerts to other vessels, but the Austria Princess proceeded towards the disabled Schönbrunn. The Austria Princess continued its approach from astern when it struck on its starboard side into the stern of the Schönbrunn. The Schönbrunn sustained damage to its bulwark and deck while more damage including shattered windows on the Austria Princess. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The Austria Princess proceeded to Krems where it was able to berth with some difficulty before continuing on to Linz for repairs. The Schönbrunn remained in Dürnstein to be inspected. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
