Cruise Ship Tilts in New Zealand Waters: 16 People Injured Due to Heavy Winds

Image credits: Kerry Burchett

The Crown Princess cruise ship experienced a brief tilt while sailing in Milford Sound in New Zealand, resulting in minor injuries to 13 passengers and three crew members. The incident occurred due to heavy weather conditions, which caused the ship to rock and led to some objects falling off shelves and flooding of some dining areas. However, swift action by the crew ensured that the situation was brought under control quickly, and the ship did not suffer any structural damage. The incident highlights the importance of crew training and emergency preparedness in the cruise industry.

The 14-day round-trip from Sydney to New Zealand will continue as scheduled, with the ship's operator, Princess Cruises, confirming that the safety of the ship was not compromised at any point. The company stated that the ship encountered strong winds during a course change, causing it to briefly tilt beyond its usual movement before stabilizing. A small amount of water from the Lido Deck pool briefly entered the Horizons food court, but the area was quickly cleaned and reopened. The safety of passengers and crew is the top priority for cruise operators, and the incident demonstrates the effectiveness of emergency procedures in minimizing the impact of such events.

Milford Sound is known for its harsh weather conditions, but modern cruise ships are designed to withstand such conditions, with the worst-case scenario being minor damage. In fact, many passengers on board the Crown Princess were unaware of the incident and continued to enjoy their cruise without interruption. The resilience of cruise ships in the face of adverse weather conditions is a testament to their design and construction. The incident is not an isolated one, with another cruise ship, Explorer of the Seas, recently experiencing a similar situation, where it was hit by heavy winds, resulting in minor damage.

Here are some key points related to the incident: * 16 people were injured, including 13 passengers and three crew members * The incident occurred due to heavy weather conditions in Milford Sound, New Zealand * The ship did not suffer any structural damage and will continue its scheduled itinerary * The safety of passengers and crew was not compromised at any point * The incident highlights the importance of crew training and emergency preparedness in the cruise industry. The Crown Princess incident is a reminder of the potential risks associated with cruise travel, but it also demonstrates the effectiveness of safety measures in minimizing the impact of such events.

The incident has raised awareness about the importance of safety protocols in the cruise industry, and the need for passengers to be aware of the potential risks associated with cruise travel. However, it is worth noting that tilting on a cruise ship is extremely uncommon, and even when it does occur, it very rarely creates a significant safety risk to passengers. As the cruise industry continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see increased focus on safety and emergency preparedness, with the goal of minimizing the risk of such incidents and ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew.