Cruiseship Strikes Ice
The Holland America cruise ship Westerdam struck ice while in Yakutat Bay, Alaksa. The Westerdam was maneuvering in high winds through ice near the Hubbard Glacier when it struck a “berg” that dented the hull 15 feet below the waterline. However, the cruise ship’s hull was not punctured and no reports of water ingress. The Westerdam was able to continue to Sitka and will proceed to Ketchikan to undergo an underwater inspection. The company reported that the damage was not significant enough to prevent the Westerdam to continue its schedule for the rest of the season. The repairs will be made when the vessel’s next dry dock. No reports of injuries or pollution being released. The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the incident.
