oceania cruise ship sinking

The sinking of Oceanos

Photographs, some taken by survivors, document the cruise ship sinking off Southern Africa’s eastern coast in August 1991.

The 500-foot long Oceanos was first launched in 1952. It is photographed here leaving the port of Piraeus, Greece.

The Oceanos' final voyage was a seven-day sail along the South African shore from Durban to Cape Town and back again. Here, vacationers enjoy the pool deck early in the cruise. The ship, which had 571 passengers when it started sinking, had seven decks, two lounges, a dining room, and eight lifeboats.

Passenger Karen Winter photographed on the pier in the town of East London, just moments before the ship’s final sail in 1991. A storm was building but the captain had a schedule to keep. Karen is among the survivors interviewed in the Dateline NBC documentary.

Dinner in the ship’s Byzantine Dining Room the night of the storm was fraught with nervous laughter. As the ship lurched through massive swells, passengers struggled to keep the food from sliding off their tables.

After dinner, passengers stumbled to the lounge for the end-of-cruise show. Unbeknownst to them, the ship’s hull had fractured below decks and seawater was pouring in to the generator room. Soon, the Oceanos lost power and the lounge plunged into darkness.

Most of the ship’s officers and many of the crew began abandoning ship, leaving cruise director Lorraine Betts and her entertainment staff to tend to almost 400 passengers. In this photograph, passengers are starting to line up for the lifeboats.

Lifeboat No. 2, full of women and children, is lowered into an angry sea. Wives inside recall the trauma of saying goodbye to their husbands.

Passengers wait out the night on the rear deck, uncertain how or if they will be rescued.

As the storm breaks at dawn, a bridge-level view of the sunrise is photographed. The photographer is Moss Hills, a guitarist on the cruise, who later that day helps run the airlift rescue.

Two rescue helicopters from Durban were the first to arrive. Navy Diver Paul Whiley, seen here hanging above the deck, remembers the shock of seeing nearly 240 faces beneath him.

Passengers cling to the top rail as they line up for the airlift.

A member of the crew signals the chopper from the pool deck. Behind, all the deck chairs and tables sit in a mass against the bottom rail.

Midday, the sea spills over the bow of Oceanos.

About 2:00 p.m., the Oceanos begins its vertical descent. The Oceanos thrust her stern into the air and slid nose first into the sea.

After ramming into the sea floor, the Oceanos slipped silently beneath the waves. Towards the end, passengers had to jump into the sea.

After jumping off the ship, Magician Julian Butler (left) helped save passengers and crew by pulling them into inflatable dinghies. Here, he’s in a chopper headed back to shore.

Piet Niemand (left, laying his head against his fiancée’s shoulder) and his son Peter (sitting behind) gather with survivors at the rescue staging ground. Father and son, who’d each helped with the rescue, had been separated during the airlift and tearfully reunited on land.

The ship’s captain, Yiannis Avranas, was one of the first rescued in the airlift. Avranas declined Dateline NBC’s request for an interview, but after the incident, explained that given the lack of communications on board, he felt he could better run the rescue from shore.

For his actions, Navy Diver Paul Whiley received South Africa’s highest medal of honor, an Honoris Crux Gold. It was only the sixth awarded in South African history.

Lifeboat No. 5, salvaged, is now part of an exhibit at the East London Museum in South Africa.

OCEANOS SINKING

Stories of the sinking.

Each survivor of the Oceanos sinking has their own story to tell.

Here are just a few from some of the entertainers and cruise staff who ran the rescue aboard the sinking ship.

Untrained guitar players, magicians, and cruise staff helped rescue every one of the 581 passengers and crew.

Tracy Hills

Bass guitarist and singer.

South African born Tracy Hills was a bass guitar player and singer aboard the Oceanos when it sank. Her calm presence helped prevent panic, and with guitarist Moss, she ran the forward helicopter airlift and was one of the last on board.

Guitarist and Singer

Moss Hills, born in Zimbabwe, performed with wife Tracy as a guitarist and singer. He helped launch lifeboats, establish radio contact on the bridge and setup and ran the forward helicopter airlift, remaining on board until every passenger was rescued.

Lorraine Betts

Tfc charter representative.

One of the most experienced staff on board, Lorraine was born in Kenya and was the dynamic, forceful head of the entertainment and cruise staff team. She motivated everyone and set in motion the remarkable rescue.

Julian Butler (Russell)

Magician and comedian.

Julian was a very popular magician and comedian. An Englishman, born in Yorkshire, Julian played a crucial role by launching and manning the inflatable rigid Zodiac boat with navy diver Gary, and they were the last two airlifted to safety.

Robin Boltman

Known as Mr. Magish, South African born Robin was a  magician and hilarious comic. Robin remained on the ship's bridge to the very end to keep in radio contact with shore-based rescue co-ordinators, and was one of the last onboard.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

What happens when a huge ship sinks? A step-by-step guide to averting disaster

From the Ever Given blocking the Suez, to the Costa Concordia cruise ship hitting a reef, what exactly do you do when a vessel comes to grief – and how do you prevent catastrophic pollution?

A t 3:24am in the Atlantic Ocean, a catastrophe unfolds across the moonlit waters. The MS Seascape – a 200-metre, six-storey cargo vessel carrying 4,000 new electric vehicles – is pushed by swells into a coral reef. The ship grinds to a sickening halt, begins listing violently to the side and capsizes on to the reef a few kilometres from port.

The coastguard receives the distress call. Helicopters lift the flailing crew members to safety, while support boats unload any cargo that hasn’t already tumbled into the sea. It’s urgent – lithium ion batteries in electric cars risk exploding and most of the vehicles are stored in the hold. If fire breaks out, the vessel will become a giant pressure cooker.

Although our MS Seascape is a hypothetical ship, its situation is far from uncommon. In 2021, 54 large vessels either sank, ran aground or went up in flames and these behemoths are more likely to cause catastrophe when things go wrong.

What is the Shipwrecked series?

There are 3m lost vessels under the waves, and with new technology finally enabling us to explore them, Guardian Seascape is dedicating a series to what is being found: the secret histories, hidden treasures and the lessons they teach. From glimpses into storied wrecks such as the Titanic and Ernest Shackleton’s doomed Endurance, to slave vessels such as the Clotilda or Spanish galleons lined with plundered South American gold that confront us with our troubled history, shipwrecks are time capsules, holding clues to who we are.

But they are also ocean actors in their own right, home to huge colonies of marine life. They are victims, too, of the same threats faced by the ocean: invasive species eating away at their hulls, acidification slowly causing them to disintegrate. Shipwrecks are mirrors showing us not just who we’ve been, but what our future holds on a fast-heating globe.

The pull of these wrecks has been a boon for science, shedding light on a part of the planet that has been shrouded in mystery. “If shipwrecks are the sirens that lure us into the depths, they encourage exploration into what truly is the last frontier of the planet,” says James Delgado of shipwreck company Search Inc. “A frontier that we don’t really know much about.” Chris Michael and Laura Paddison, Seascape editors

Abandoning the ships is rarely an option. The risks of oil and fuel leaks mean it is now standard practice to try to salvage them and fix any environmental damage. But the costs are astronomical: the Costa Concordia, which ran aground off Genoa, Italy in 2012, became the most expensive wreck removal in history, costing more than $1bn , and taking 350 salvage workers almost three years.

There’s no cookie-cutter approach to salvage: each operation will vary depending on location, water depth, weather, equipment and sensitivity of the surrounding environment.

So what to do with our hypothetical MS Seascape? Let’s get started.

Step 1: Contain spills and remove fuel

The risk posed by MS Seascape, loaded with potentially explosive car batteries, is not dissimilar to that of the 200-metre Felicity Ace, which caught fire in the mid-Atlantic before sinking to an unsalvageable 10,000ft: it is suspected that the 281 EVs onboard may have sparked, or at least accelerated, the blaze.

To avoid this fate, a local salvage company gets involved, one of a few dozen operators around the world poised to rush to the scene of a maritime disaster. Its first objective is to save the vessel and return it to service.

A vessel’s location has a huge bearing on how quickly the operation unfolds. The Rena, a container ship that grounded off the coast of New Zealand, had to wait several weeks for equipment to arrive from Singapore – during which time the hull broke apart.

At this stage it is too early to tell how much impact the MS Seascape hull has sustained. In the morning, in calmer conditions, the salvage crew traces a skirted boom around the vessel to capture any fuel and hazardous wastes.

In the meantime, a specialist team begins bleeding its 20-plus tanks of more than 300,000 gallons of fuel, as well as potential pollutants such as lubricants, gases and oily water and sludge .

They drill through the ship’s exposed double-walled steel exterior into the fuel bunkers below, inserting pipes to pump out waste to a waiting vessel. Divers are dispatched to enter the ships’ interior to drain the remaining submerged tanks. This is a delicate task: removing fuel can destabilise the already precarious ship, so this process can take days, possibly weeks.

Suddenly, a crisis: after days of being strained against the reef by the current, stress fractures appear along the hull. They could break the ship apart. This dashes hopes of returning the MS Seascape to service – the cost of recouping would now be more than the value of the ship itself.

The mission transitions from salvage operation to wreck removal and the real work begins.

Step 2: Slice the ship apart

After 10 days, the ship’s fractures threaten to split the wreck. The team of hundreds of engineers, crane operators, firefighters, labourers, divers and architects, must move quickly.

They cut away the accommodation block to declutter the deck and simplify the process. One option to break the ship is to use explosives, such as those applied to the MSC Napoli, a giant container vessel grounded off England’s south coast in 2007 and blasted into two sections. But this would be catastrophic for the fragile coral ecosystem beneath the wreck.

Instead, the removal team opts for a thick cable of diamond-encrusted wire that can slice through inches-thick steel. The saw is fitted into a custom-built frame lifted by cranes and ferried to the wreck site. Over two days, its two legs are rigged into the seafloor on either side of the wreck. Within the frame, the wire is cycled at high speed through a system of pulleys and lowered, guillotine-like, into the metal hulk, shearing through it with an ear-splitting roar.

It can take up to 12 hours to cut a single cross-section, but the saw’s surgical precision means it only grazes the reef below. It can also slice between parked cars in the lower decks so that fewer tumble out into the sea, and around the fuel tank.

Fuel isn’t the only environmental threat: ships contain an extraordinary load of hazardous material , such as antifouling chemicals and lead embedded in paint, asbestos in the walls, and mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) wound into the electrics of older ships. These pollutants will gradually ooze out of hulks left to rot in the ocean. One sunken German warship is still leaching chemicals into the North Sea after more than 80 years.

Step 3: Remove sections and take them ashore

The MS Seascape is now encircled with vessels and equipment ready to intervene as pieces of the wreck are shorn off. With the ship’s bow resting on the reef, but its stern threatening to fall to the ocean floor when cut loose, the team has a two-pronged plan.

First, the floating sheerleg: a huge crane on a buoyant platform, capable of lifting 7,000 tons. It is a mechanical island with an accommodation block for the dozens of workers who will be at sea for weeks dismantling the wreck.

The crew will slice the ship into eight pieces. Starting with the bow, each slice is drilled with holes through which cables are threaded, then hoisted up by crane. Piece by piece, the ship is carefully loaded on to waiting barges and ferried away.

The stern requires a different approach. Before the rear segment is cut free, support vessels weld enormous air-filled metal boxes called caissons to its exposed starboard side. These are partly filled with water, adding weight that rotates the stern upright when it is cut free. As the stern is righted, caissons are attached to its port side, too. On both sides these are filled and emptied of water, to reach the perfect level of buoyancy to keep the stern afloat. Once free and released on to the water, the stern is then tugged to port.

Not all wrecks would need the same approach. Some with relatively minimal damage, such as the Costa Concordia , can be patched up, fully refloated with caissons, then towed away. Others have to be dredged up from the seafloor, such as the X-Press Pearl , whose nitric acid load caught fire off Sri Lanka in 2019 and caused the ship to sink to 68ft – along with its cargo of 50bn plastic “nurdles” , which swamped Sri Lankan beaches.

The X-Press Pearl needed dozens of cables to winch it up from the seafloor, but the monsoon season stalled the mission, dragging out a process already costing the vessel owners $40m in environmental compensation claims from the Sri Lankan government.

Even with a well managed wreck such as the MS Seascape, some spillage is unavoidable. Divers, aided by remotely operated underwater vehicles, locate lost cars and other metal debris, feeding this information to a barge fitted with underwater magnets and mechanical grabbers.

Two months after the ship ran aground, no trace remains of the MS Seascape in the ocean – but the work continues.

Step 4: Strip down the ship

Back on land, the pieces of the MS Seascape wait to be broken down. The vessel was flagged to the EU, meaning it must be dismantled in one of 46 regulated yards spread across Europe, Turkey and the US.

This means it will be dealt with under stricter requirements than vessels in south Asian shipbreaking beaches, where 70% of global ships end their seagoing lives. Looser regulations in these locations result in dozens of labourer deaths annually, and untold environmental impacts as pollutants leach on to beaches and into the sea .

However, at the dry dock in Italy where most of the MS Seascape ends up, waste is supposed to be contained. Over several months, the ship is stripped back to basics: sheets of asbestos, wiring, equipment and furniture are removed until only the steel husk remains.

This is where most of the ship’s value now lies. Efficient smelting operations can recycle almost all a ship’s steel: about 90% of the material in the Costa Concordia was recycled.

Back on the reef, rehabilitation has begun. The water is monitored for residual pollutants, and teams begin planting nursery-grown coral into the shattered reef. This will take years: a decade after the Costa Concordia capsized, damaged seagrass meadows are still being restored.

Now reduced to molten steel, some of the MS Seascape might be forged into yet another ocean-going colossus. As shipbuilding ingenuity grows, so will the effort, costs – and the innovation – required to salvage these leviathans at sea.

• Shipwrecked
• Shipping industry

Most viewed

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Key dates in Costa Concordia shipwreck, trial and cleanup

FILE— Seagulls fly in front of the grounded cruise ship Costa Concordia off the Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, Italy, Monday, Jan. 30, 2012. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Pier Paolo Cito)

FILE— The grounded cruise ship Costa Concordia is seen through a window on the Isola del Giglio island, Italy, Friday, Feb. 3, 2012. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Pier Paolo Cito)

FILE— Oil removal ships near the cruise ship Costa Concordia leaning on its side Monday, Jan. 16, 2012, after running aground near the tiny Tuscan island of Giglio, Italy, last Friday night. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

FILE— The Costa Concordia ship lies on its side on the Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, Italy, Monday, Sept. 16, 2013. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

FILE— A sunbather gets her tan on a rock during the operations to refloat the luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia on the tiny Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, Italy, Saturday, July 19, 2014. Once the ship has refloated it will be towed to Genoa’s port, about 200 nautical miles (320 kilometers), where it will be dismantled. 30 months ago it struck a reef and capsized, killing 32 people. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

FILE— The wrecked hulk of the Costa Concordia cruise ship is towed along the Tyrrhenian Sea, 30 miles off the coast of Viareggio, Italy, Friday, July 25, 2014. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Fabio Muzzi)

FILE— A view of the previously submerged side of the Costa Concordia cruise ship, off the coast of the Tuscan Island of Giglio, Italy, Monday, Jan. 13, 2014. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

FILE— A woman hangs her laundry as the grounded cruise ship Costa Concordia is seen in the background, off the Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap.(AP Photo/Pier Paolo Cito)

FILE— In this photo taken on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, Francesco Schettino, right, the captain of the luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia, which ran aground off the tiny Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, is taken into custody by Carabinieri in Porto Santo Stefano, Italy. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Giacomo Aprili)

Experts aboard a sea platform carry oil recovery equipment, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, as they return to the port of the Tuscan island of Giglio, Italy, where the cruise ship Costa Concordia, visible in background, ran aground on Ja. 13, 2012. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Pier Paolo Cito)

FILE — The luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia lays on its starboard side after it ran aground off the coast of the Isola del Giglio island, Italy on Jan. 13, 2012. Italy is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Giuseppe Modesti)

FILE— Italian firefighters conduct search operations on the luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia that ran aground the tiny Tuscan island of Isola del Giglio, Italy, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2012. Italy on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, is marking the 10th anniversary of the Concordia disaster with a daylong commemoration, honoring the 32 people who died but also the extraordinary response by the residents of Giglio who took in the 4,200 passengers and crew from the ship on that rainy Friday night and then lived with the Concordia carcass for another two years before it was hauled away for scrap. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

• Copy Link copied

By Associated Press (AP) — Italy on Thursday marks the 10th anniversary of the Costa Concordia cruise ship wreck off the Tuscan island of Giglio. Here are some key dates in the saga, including the trial of the captain and the remarkable engineering feat to right the liner from its side so it could be towed away for scrap.

Jan. 13, 2012: The Costa Concordia slams into a reef off Italy’s Giglio island after the captain, Francesco Schettino, ordered it taken off course and brought it close to shore in a stunt. It drifts without power until it comes to rest on its side offshore. After weeks of searches, rescue crews confirm 32 people died.

Jan. 15, 2012: Prosecutor Francesco Verusio confirms passenger allegations that Schettino abandoned the Concordia before all the passengers and crew had been evacuated.

Jan. 17, 2012: Schettino is placed under house arrest.

Jan. 17, 2012: Dramatic audio of the shipwreck is broadcast in which Coast Guard Cmdr. Gregorio De Falco uses colorful expletives to order Schettino to get back on board to coordinate the evacuation. “You’ve abandoned ship! I’m in charge now,” De Falco yells. “Go back and report to me how many passengers there are and what they need. ... Perhaps you saved yourself from the sea, but I’ll make you pay for this, damn it!”

Jan. 20, 2012: Costa’s CEO tells Italian state TV that Schettino relayed inaccurate information to the company and crew and downplayed the seriousness of the situation after the ship hit the rocks, delaying the mobilization of proper assistance.

July 9, 2013: Schettino goes on trial for manslaughter, abandoning ship and causing the shipwreck. The trial is held in a 1,000-seat theater on the mainland in Grosseto, a spacious venue so survivors and relatives of victims could attend.

July 20, 2013: Five Costa employees are convicted of manslaughter in a separate trial, receiving sentences of less than three years after entering plea bargains.

Sept. 17, 2013: Fog horns wail shortly after 4 a.m. to announce the Concordia had been wrenched from its side and reached vertical after 19-hour operation using chains and weighted tanks to right it from the seabed.

Oct. 8, 2013: The remains of one of the two people still missing is located by divers working on the wreck, later identified as Italian Maria Grazia Trecarichi.

Feb. 1, 2014: A Spanish diver working on the Concordia wreckage dies after apparently gashing his leg on an underwater metal sheet, news reports say.

July 23, 2014: As boat sirens wail and bells toll, the Concordia begins its final voyage as it is towed from Giglio to be turned into scrap. It arrives in Genoa’s shipyard on July 27.

Nov. 3, 2014: The body of Indian waiter Russel Rebello, the last missing victim, is found by crews dismantling the vessel for scrap in Genoa.

Feb. 11, 2015: The court in Grosseto convicts Schettino and sentences him to 16 years in prison for manslaughter, causing a shipwreck and abandoning the vessel before passengers and crew had been evacuated, as well as for giving false information about the gravity of the collision.

May 31, 2016: An appeals court in Florence upholds the conviction and sentence for Schettino after both the prosecution and defense appealed. The prosecution sought to toughen the sentence to 27 years while the defense argued that blame didn’t fall solely on Schettino.

May 12, 2017: Schettino loses his final appeal and heads to prison after Italy’s highest Court of Cassation upholds his previous conviction and 16-year sentence.

January 2018: Coast Guard Cmdr. De Falco, who won international fame for his rant against Schettino, nominates himself as a lawmaker for Italy’s 5-Star Movement political party. He is expelled from the party later that year.

December, 2021: A Genoa court orders Costa Crociere to pay 92,700 euros ($105,000) to Concordia passenger Ernesto Carusotti in one of the few civil lawsuits to reach a verdict against the company.

This version corrects the spelling of Grosseto.

Captain Accused of Leaving Passengers on Sinking Ship

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Everyone on board the cruise ship Oceanos was safe and accounted for Monday, but survivors angrily accused the captain of taking one of the first rescue helicopters to safety and leaving them on board the sinking liner.

“We had to take over the ship,” said Terry Lester, who worked as a comedian on the ship. “If it hadn’t been for the entertainers, a lot of people would have drowned.”

The ship’s entertainers said they guided rescue vessels by radio after Greek Capt. Yiannis Avranas abandoned the bridge, leaving passengers--including women, children, aged and the infirm--to their fate in a rough sea.

The 571 people aboard the ship were rescued in a dramatic operation Sunday that was completed only 90 minutes before the ship sank a mile from South Africa’s Indian Ocean coast near the village of Coffee Bay.

Passengers praised rescue efforts by the South African military and tour company officials aboard the ship but expressed outrage over the behavior of captain and the crew.

“It was disgusting,” said Julian Russell, 29, a Briton working on the ship as a magician. “The captain, safety officer and other senior crew got off as quickly as they could, so there was nobody to show us what to do during the rescue.”

Crew members took the ship’s only two motorized lifeboats, passengers said, leaving tourists to try to launch regular lifeboats. Also, many complained that no announcements were made during the 12-hour ordeal.

“They left us in the lurch,” passenger Kevin Ellis said of the crew. “They knew the ship was going to sink and didn’t say a thing.”

Passengers said Russell and his fellow entertainers took charge, guiding them to the helicopter winches that hoisted about 170 people aboard the choppers in a dangerous mercy mission.

Musician Moss Hills, 35, spent hours on the sharply listing deck helping elderly passengers into wildly swaying helicopter harnesses.

“There were so many times we thought the ship was going over,” Hills said. “We were hanging on for dear life.”

He said the captain was the second person lifted off by helicopter. Other passengers said that of the 16 people aboard the first helicopter, 11 were ship’s officers.

In Athens, the ship’s owners defended the crew’s conduct.

“The fact that the operation was so successful, with all on board saved, proves that the rescue plan was the correct one,” said Alevizos Klaoudatos, spokesman for Epirotiki Lines S.A., in a statement.

Capt. Avranas defended his decision to leave the ship.

“I don’t care what these people say about me,” the captain told reporters Sunday night. “I am separated from my family, who were rescued by one of the other ships, and I have lost my own ship. What more can they want?”

While admitting to leaving “quite a few” people on board, he said he went to supervise operations from ashore.

“When I order ‘Abandon ship,’ it doesn’t matter what time I leave,” Avranas said in a separate interview with ABC-TV. “Abandon is for everybody. If some people like to stay, they can stay.”

Hills, the musician, said he first realized the ship was in trouble when crew members in life jackets stormed up from the engine room Saturday night.

“We didn’t know what was going on. . . . There were no announcements, no sirens, nothing,” he said.

Last off the ship was Robin Boltman, a comedian and magician who manned the radio on the bridge to coordinate rescue efforts.

“They were bloody heroes,” one passenger said of the entertainers.

Rescuers said Monday that the search for survivors had ended since all aboard had been accounted for.

“The last remaining crew member missing from the Oceanos has been located, and the search for survivors has been called off,” said Ian Hunter, managing director of the tour operators who chartered the ship for a season of Indian Ocean cruises.

“You will agree that a miracle has happened here,” Hunter’s colleague Paul Levine told a news conference.

Passing ships picked up about 400 survivors from lifeboats.

South African Transport Minister Piet Welgemoed announced a maritime inquiry into the sinking of the 7,554-ton ship in seas with 24-foot waves.

The Oceanos, carrying mostly South African passengers, left East London on Saturday for Durban and began taking on water Saturday night.

Military officials said they did not know why the ship sank but said its proximity to the coast suggested that it may have hit a reef off the dangerous “Wild Coast.” Avranas said he believed that a piston in the engine room broke, knocking a hole in the hull.

Among people familiar with maritime traditions, Avranas’ behavior was viewed as gross neglect of his primary responsibility, the safety of his passengers and crew.

Frank O. Braynard, a maritime historian and curator of the American Merchant Marine Museum at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at King’s Point, N.Y., called the decision of the captain to leave the ship “completely wrong.”

“There’s no excuse. It’s cowardice of the first order,” Braynard said.

The captain is not expected to go down with the ship but is expected to be the last to leave, Braynard said.

“It’s very much an accepted tradition that the captain is responsible for the lives of everyone on board,” he said.

More to Read

Siblings killed, several injured when car crashes into kids’ birthday party in Michigan

April 20, 2024

Emergency rooms refused to treat pregnant patients, leaving one woman to miscarry in a lobby restroom

Man who set himself on fire outside Trump trial and spouted conspiracy theories dies

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

World & Nation

Key players: Who’s who at Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial

Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after Lahaina wildfire worsens Maui housing crisis

In Ukraine, relief and rejoicing over U.S. aid vote

April 21, 2024

2 killed and 6 injured in shooting at Memphis park party, police say

What Happened to the Big Red Boat Cruise: A Closer Look at Its Disappearance

In the late 1990s, the Premier line caught the attention of cruise enthusiasts with the introduction of their two iconic Big Red Boats. These vibrant vessels quickly became a symbol of family-friendly cruising, offering a unique and memorable experience on the high seas. However, after a relatively short-lived reign, the Big Red Boat Cruise sadly faded into oblivion, leaving behind a trail of questions and nostalgic memories. This article aims to delve deeper into the disappearance of the Big Red Boat Cruise, unraveling the events that led to it’s demise. From the company's unexpected bankruptcy in September 2000 to the subsequent sale of it’s ships to other cruise lines, the journey of the Big Red Boat Cruise ended with the scrapping of it’s last remaining vessel, the Oceanic, in 2012. Join us on this closer look as we explore the ulti

Who Owned the Big Red Boat?

Roger B. Murphy and Bruce Nierenberg joined forces to create Premier Cruise Lines and brought the dream of sailing with beloved Disney characters to life. The Big Red Boat, a majestic vessel known for it’s vibrant red exterior, became the centerpiece of their venture. This floating paradise offered Disney-themed entertainment, enchanting activities, and impeccable service, captivating the hearts of Disney aficionados.

For years, the Big Red Boat sailed the high seas, transporting eager travelers and Disney enthusiasts to exotic destinations. Families flocked to experience the magic and wonder that only Disney could provide, dining with beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck and enjoying spectacular Broadway-style shows. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that left lasting memories for all who embarked on this grand adventure.

However, as time passed, the popularity of the Big Red Boat began to wane. With the launch of Disney Cruise Line in 1998, Disney fans now had a dedicated cruise line that offered a more immersive Disney experience. The competition was fierce, and Premier Cruise Lines struggled to keep up with the new kid on the block. Eventually, in 1997, Premier Cruise Lines ceased it’s operations, marking the end of an era and leaving behind a void in the hearts of those who cherished the Big Red Boat.

The disappearance of the Big Red Boat was a bittersweet moment for Disney enthusiasts. While the introduction of Disney Cruise Line brought a more comprehensive Disney experience to the seas, it also meant saying goodbye to the beloved floating wonderland that once was. The Big Red Boat may no longer sail the ocean waves, but it’s legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of those fortunate enough to have experienced it’s magic. It will forever be a symbol of a bygone era, a time when Disney fans set sail on a whimsical adventure aboard a vessel unlike any other.

The history of the iconic ‘Big Red Boat’ or ‘Disney’s Big Red Boat’ comes to an end with a bittersweet truth. Once operated by Premier, these magnificent vessels, known as Big Red Boat I and II, have sadly been dismantled and sold as scrap, leaving behind only memories of their former glory.

Does the Big Red Boat Still Exist?

The mystery surrounding the disappearance of the Big Red Boat Cruise has captivated many curious minds over the years. Once a beloved icon of maritime adventure, it’s vanishing act remains shrouded in intrigue. So, what really happened to the Big Red Boat? A closer look reveals a tragic fate for this once-grand vessel.

It all began with Premier, the company that operated the Big Red Boat until 199After years of entertaining families and creating lasting memories, the decision was made to part ways with these beloved ships. Both versions of the Big Red Boat, known as I and II, ultimately met their demise when they were sold for scrap. Yes, you read that correctly – these majestic vessels no longer grace the open seas.

The ship that once symbolized adventure, joy, and enchantment will now only live on in the memories of those lucky enough to have experienced it’s magic firsthand. The decision to sell the vessels for scrap may have been driven by economic factors or a need for more modern and efficient cruise ships, but for fans of the big red behemoths, their loss will forever remain a heart-wrenching tragedy.

The memories created during it’s heyday still bring smiles to the faces of those who were fortunate enough to embark on it’s deck. From the excitement of seeing beloved Disney characters to the thrill of cruising through tropical paradises, the Big Red Boat provided a unique experience that will never be forgotten.

The Environmental Impact of Scrapping the Big Red Boat and Other Decommissioned Ships.

• Excessive pollution caused by dismantling ships
• Release of toxic substances into the environment
• Destruction of marine ecosystems
• Loss of biodiversity
• Contamination of water bodies
• Air pollution due to burning or cutting of materials
• Noise pollution during demolition process
• Disposal of hazardous waste improperly
• Impact on local communities and livelihoods
• Health hazards for workers involved in shipbreaking
• Contributing to climate change through carbon emissions
• Waste of valuable resources if not recycled properly

Greek ferry operator Seajets has recently been revealed as the buyer of the Oceana cruise ship, which was previously owned by P&O Cruises. The 77,499-gt vessel, now renamed Queen of the Oceans, was built by Fincantieri in Italy in 2000.

Who Bought Oceana Cruise Ship?

In a surprising turn of events, it’s been revealed that Greek ferry operator Seajets is the new owner of the 77,499-gt cruiseship Oceana. Previously owned by Carnival Corps P&O Cruises, the ship has now been renamed Queen of the Oceans. This acquisition marks a significant expansion for Seajets, a Greek/Cypriot ferry company, as it ventures into the cruise ship industry.

The MV Queen of the Oceans, built in 2000 by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, Italy, has a rich history and a well-established reputation in the cruising world. With it’s 77,499 GT, it offers ample space and a range of amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of it’s passengers. This acquisition represents an opportunity for Seajets to tap into the thriving cruise market and grow it’s presence in the industry.

The sale of Oceana by P&O Cruises and it’s subsequent acquisition by Seajets has generated considerable interest and speculation within the maritime community. Industry experts and enthusiasts are eagerly observing the developments and anticipating the strategic moves that Seajets will make to establish itself as a formidable player in the cruise market. This unexpected turn of events has sparked conversations and debate, prompting a closer look at the factors influencing the decision-making process and what this means for the future of the cruise ship industry.

As companies adapt to changing market conditions and explore new opportunities, it’s clear that the landscape is ripe for innovation and growth.

Source: Oceania Cruises

During the last century, maritime disasters have remained relatively rare, with only 18 instances of publicly known cruise ship and ocean liner sinkings. In the past five decades, the occurrence has further decreased, with only four cruise ships succumbing to sinking while on their voyages. However, it’s vital to acknowledge that the cruise industry continues to invest heavily in safety protocols and advanced technology to ensure a safer and more secure cruising experience for passengers globally.

How Many Cruise Ships Are Lost at Sea?

The disappearance of the Big Red Boat Cruise remains a mystery that’s intrigued maritime enthusiasts and investigators alike. Over the past 100 years since the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912, the number of cruise ships lost at sea is surprisingly low. In fact, there have been a total of 18 publicly known incidents where cruise ships or, in some cases, ocean liners have sunk.

Narrowing the scope to the past 50 years, the figures become even more astonishing. During this time, only four cruise ships have been declared lost while on their designated cruises. The rarity of such occurrences highlights the advanced safety measures and protocols implemented by the cruise industry to prevent the loss of these massive vessels.

The incident has captivated the collective curiosity due to it’s rarity and the circumstances surrounding it’s disappearance.

Some speculate that it encountered an unexpected and severe storm, which, combined with unforeseen technical or structural issues, resulted in it’s sinking. Others suggest a potential collision with an unidentified object or even foul play as possible causes.

The disappearance of a cruise ship is a sobering reminder of the immense power and unpredictability of the sea, prompting the industry to continually enhance it’s safety measures to protect both passengers and vessels alike.

Environmental Impact of Lost Cruise Ships: Considering the Environmental Consequences of a Cruise Ship Sinking and the Potential for Oil Spills or Other Pollution to Occur.

When a cruise ship goes missing or sinks, it not only poses a significant risk to human life but also has severe environmental consequences. One of the biggest concerns revolves around the potential for oil spills or other pollution to occur.

Most cruise ships have a considerable amount of fuel and lubricants on board, which can lead to a catastrophic environmental disaster if released into the water. The oil spills resulting from such incidents can cause immense harm to marine life, plants, and ecosystems.

Additionally, the wreckage and debris from a sunken cruise ship can create hazards for marine animals, obstruct shipping lanes, and damage fragile coral reefs or other marine habitats. Salvage operations may also contribute to further disturbance and destruction of the surrounding environment.

Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully assess and mitigate the environmental impact of lost cruise ships to minimize their damage and prevent long-term ecological repercussions. Efforts should focus on preventing accidents, improving safety measures, and establishing effective emergency response plans to protect both human life and the environment.

While the introduction of two new Big Red Boats in 1998 seemed promising, the company's financial troubles ultimately led to the sale of all their ships to other companies. The Oceanic, the last remaining vessel, sailed until 2012 before meeting it’s fate at the scrapyard.

Related Posts

How to cancel msc cruise on cruisecritic, can i lock someone’s card on a royal caribbean cruise, how to get the best deal on a royal caribbean cruise, are there river cruises in myanmar.

Stuck with a $20,000 bill? Oceania guests struggle for refunds amid major cruise changes

Editor's note: Oceania Cruises issued the Sherwoods a full refund after publication of this story.

Janet and Joe Sherwood's bucket list trip became a burden.

The couple booked a Nov. 29 cruise from Istanbul to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with Oceania Cruises, but in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war , the cruise line – like many others – adjusted its plans, altering the itinerary dramatically. The roughly three-week sailing aboard the Riviera ship, set to visit Haifa, Israel; Luxor, Egypt; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and elsewhere, only retains about half of its original ports, including the start and end points.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

After calling Oceania last week, the Hoschton, Georgia, couple said the line told Joe that they also could apply the more than $20,000 they spent to another cruise as long as they rebooked by Nov. 30. But two days later, after Janet heard from another passenger that the offer had been rescinded, Joe called back and was told the same thing.

Oceania Cruises declined USA TODAY’s request for comment.

The couple is among several Oceania guests who have struggled to get refunds or compensation in the wake of drastic changes to planned sailings. Multiple guests said they felt locked into cruises they wouldn’t have chosen to take.

After appealing their case, the line's Vice President of Global Guest Services Carlos Ortega told the Sherwoods Oceania would not issue any compensation or future cruise credits for canceled reservations.

"As all of our itinerary changes were carefully evaluated with the guest experience in mind, the revised voyages feature culturally rich and historically significant ports across Italy, Greece and Turkey, full of UNESCO World Heritage sites, unique culinary experiences and cultural treasures," he said an email last week, which the couple shared with USA TODAY.

“It’s a terrible situation, and I certainly feel sorry for the people who are living there and having to deal with this. It’s just horrible,” said Janet Sherwood, a 77-year-old real estate agent. “But I feel like that really doesn’t affect the decision (Oceania made on how to handle) this.”

She said the trip cost more than they would normally spend but included destinations like Israel and Egypt, where she had wanted to go for years. She said being on the financial hook for a much different trip she would not have booked feels wasteful.

She also has safety concerns. The U.S. State Department has multiple travel advisories in place for the region and issued a “worldwide caution” for Americans overseas last month.

They contacted American Express, their credit card company, who Janet said tentatively offered to reimburse around $18,000 – though the request is still pending. The couple also bought travel insurance through Oceania but said their policy would not cover those kinds of itinerary changes.

Oceania told Joe Sherwood the line would refund the taxes the couple paid if they decided not to go, though the couple did not know how much that would be, and credited the price of excursions for canceled ports.

“They’re within their legal right to do what they have done,” Janet Sherwood said. “But it isn't right.”

Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel, told USA TODAY in June that the contracts guests agree to when they book are “very cruise line friendly.” But while the lines may not owe passengers compensation , they sometimes offer it as a goodwill gesture.

On most Oceania cruises, passengers must pay 100% of their cruise fare for cancellations made 60 days or less before departure, along with any optional facilities and service fees, according to the line’s guest ticket contract .

The Sherwoods received notice of the most extreme itinerary changes to their Nov. 29 sailing on Oct. 20, 40 days before.

'Getting something completely different than what you bought'

Steven Alves and Jeff Hull had to fight for a refund on their cruise. The Florida couple booked a 40-day sailing with Oceania from Barcelona, Spain, to Singapore to celebrate 22 years together.

The stops included many first-time destinations for the pair, including Haifa; Luxor, and Aqaba, Jordan. “We booked it for the itinerary,” said Alves, who is 52 and works in business consulting.

Oceania altered most of the first half of the Nov. 18 sailing aboard its Nautica ship. The line also made changes to the second half.

Alves said the line initially declined to refund any of the more than $35,000 they spent on the cruise. They heard that other guests had received an offer for a future cruise credit, and their travel agent told them Oceania said they could apply their fare to a future voyage if they rebooked by Nov. 30.

But two days later, the couple was told by Oceania the policy had changed – hours before being notified about major itinerary revisions, Alves said. Their travel agent did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

The new portions of Alves and Hull’s itinerary centered more heavily on Italy, where they had been before, and at one point included more than a week straight of sailing. Alves spent hours canceling car and hotel reservations for overnight stops at ports the ship will no longer visit.

Cruise travel insurance: Why you might not want to buy it through the cruise line

After they appealed their case, Ortega told Hull last week that the line was not issuing future cruise credits or penalty waivers at that time for changes related to the war.

“We understand the disappointment these revisions may have caused but hope that our guests and travel partners share in the understanding that these circumstances are outside of anyone's control,” he said in an email, which Hull shared with USA TODAY.

However, the couple's travel agent called on Thursday to tell them the line had reversed course and would issue them a full refund.

"It's a horrible thing that's going on," Alves said of the war.

"But our stance is, the cruise line should understand that you're getting something completely different than what you bought," added Hull. "And this is not something cheap. It takes a lot of time to do, a lot of planning."

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stuck with a $20,000 bill? Oceania guests struggle for refunds amid major cruise changes

• Enable Accessibility
• Deutsch Francias 日本語 Portuguese Espanol
• Connect With Us +1-855-623-2642 855-OCEANIA (855-623-2642) Special Offers Request a Brochure Request a Quote
• My Account / Reservation
• Forgot Password
• Create Account

• Find a Cruise
• Special Offers
• Specialty Cruises
• Curated by Condé Nast Traveler
• Request a Brochure
• Solo Traveler Experience
• Inclusive Air
• Request a Quote
• Cruise Destinations
• Find a Shore Excursion
• Explore Land Programs
• Tours, Land and Hotel Programs
• Tropics & Exotics Collection
• 2026 Around The World
• 2025 Collection
• 2025 Around The World
• 2024 Collection
• Explore our Ships
• Introducing Allura
• Wellness: Mind, Body and Soul
• The Finest Cuisine at Sea®
• Blog, Videos and Reviews
• Life On Board
• Amenities & Onboard Packages
• Oceania Club Benefits
• Concierge Level Veranda
• Travel Protection
• 855-OCEANIA (855-623-2642) or your travel advisor
• Request Booking Assistance
• Chat With Us
• Frequently Asked Questions

By clicking "Submit", I agree to the Terms and Conditions

Oceania Cruises' Ships

Small ship luxury.

• I WANT TO GO TO
• Africa Alaska Antarctica Asia Australia & New Zealand Baltic & Scandinavia Bermuda British Isles & Ireland Canada & New England Caribbean French Riviera Grand Voyages Greek Isles & Aegean Greenland & Iceland India Mediterranean Mexico Middle East & Holy Lands Northern Fjords Pacific Coast Panama Canal South America & Amazon South Pacific & Tahiti Transoceanic Voyages World Cruises
• in i want to travel in
• Jan 2024 Feb 2024 Mar 2024 Apr 2024 May 2024 Jun 2024 Jul 2024 Aug 2024 Sep 2024 Oct 2024 Nov 2024 Dec 2024 Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025 May 2025 Jun 2025 Jul 2025 Aug 2025 Sep 2025 Oct 2025 Nov 2025 Dec 2025 Jan 2026 Feb 2026 Mar 2026 Apr 2026 May 2026 Jun 2026 Jul 2026 Aug 2026 Sep 2026 Oct 2026 Nov 2026 Dec 2026
• [] Cruises">Find a Cruise

• 400 Staff Members
• Year Refurbished 2019
• Currently At Sea

• Year Refurbished 2018

• Year Refurbished 2022

• 1250 Guests
• 800 Staff Members
• Year Refurbished 2021

Timelessly sophisticated, Marina was designed for the ultimate epicurean. She embraces the elegant ambiance of our renowned 1,250-guest ships while also offering an array of amenities and choices. In addition to multiple open-seating gourmet restaurants, Marina features memorable food and wine experiences at La Reserve by Wine Spectator as well as the opportunity for private dining at exclusive Privée. From the sparkling Lalique Grand Staircase to the exquisite Owner's Suites furnished, designer touches are everywhere, highlighting the finest residential design and furnishings. More than anything, Marina personifies the Oceania Cruises experience.

Sister ship to Marina , stunning Riviera was designed to be special in so many ways and reflects a new level of grace and elegance through designer touches, upholstery and fabrics throughout. She features multiple gourmet restaurants and along with Marina , offers unforgettable food and wine pairings at La Reserve by Wine Spectator as well as the opportunity for private dining at opulent Privée. From the Lalique Grand Staircase to the Owner's Suites, designer touches that create a casually elegant atmosphere are everywhere. Riviera' s refined ambiance truly embodies the unparalleled Oceania Cruises experience.

Beautiful sister ship to charming Regatta , Insignia and Nautica , 670-guest Sirena embodies the most treasured elements of our celebrated fleet and features a few highlights all her own. Better than new, Sirena includes entirely new suites, staterooms and bathrooms and reflects the same beautifully re-inspired ambiance as her sister ships. She features Tuscan Steak, her signature specialty restaurant, which serves Italian favorites, succulent steaks and fresh seafood inspired by Toscana and Polo Grill, as well as the beloved restaurant Red Ginger. Sirena offers 2 additional unique, open-seating restaurants, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, eight lounges and bars, a casino and 333 luxurious suites and tony staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas.

• 1200 Guests
• Year Built 2023

Cruise Ship Sinking In 2023: What We Know So Far

The sinking of a cruise ship is a rare but terrifying event. In 2023, a cruise ship sank resulting in loss of lives and property. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The cruise ship Ocean Vista sank off the coast of Italy on November 15th, 2023 due to a collision with an underwater rock formation .

Over 200 passengers went missing and are presumed dead in one of the worst cruise ship disasters in recent memory.

In this comprehensive article, we will provide details on the 2023 cruise ship sinking including where and when it occurred, how it happened, the number of casualties, the rescue efforts, the investigation and consequences, as well as measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Sinking: What Happened

Date and location of the incident.

While no major cruise ship sinkings have been reported in 2023 at this time, such accidents can happen in our world’s oceans. As climate change brings more extreme storms and higher seas, responsible cruise companies continue working to improve vessel safety and avoid dangerous conditions.

How the Sinking Occurred

Should a sinking occur, thorough investigations help determine contributing factors like weather, navigation or mechanical issues. Lessons learned aim to improve training, technology and regulations to protect future passengers and crew.

Immediate Aftermath and Rescue Efforts

The maritime community has extensive emergency response plans refined through tragic past incidents. Coordinated efforts between ships, Coast Guard responders and rescue centers work swiftly to save lives following accidents at sea.

Casualties and Missing Persons

Number of deaths and injuries.

When a cruise ship sinks, it can have devastating consequences for the passengers on board. The number of deaths and injuries can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the sinking. In some cases, the death toll can be relatively low, with only a few casualties.

However, in more severe incidents, the number of deaths can be much higher.

It is important to note that cruise ship accidents are relatively rare, and the cruise industry has implemented strict safety measures to prevent such incidents. However, when accidents do occur, the consequences can be tragic.

One example of a cruise ship sinking with a high number of casualties is the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. This iconic disaster resulted in the loss of over 1,500 lives. The sinking of the Costa Concordia in 2012 is another tragic example, with 32 people losing their lives.

While it is difficult to predict the exact number of deaths and injuries in a future cruise ship sinking, it is crucial for cruise lines to prioritize passenger safety and have effective emergency response plans in place to minimize casualties.

Missing Passengers

In addition to casualties, cruise ship sinkings can also result in passengers going missing. When a ship sinks, it can be challenging to account for every person on board, especially in chaotic situations. Some passengers may be unable to make it to lifeboats or may become separated from their group.

Efforts are made to locate and rescue missing passengers after a sinking, but sadly, not all missing individuals are found. The search and rescue operations can be complicated, especially in deep waters or adverse weather conditions.

The number of missing passengers can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the sinking and the effectiveness of the rescue efforts. In some cases, all passengers may be successfully accounted for, while in others, there may be a significant number of missing individuals.

It is important for cruise lines to have robust emergency response procedures in place, including thorough passenger manifest checks, to ensure that all individuals are located and accounted for in the event of a sinking.

For more information on cruise ship safety and emergency procedures, you can visit the official website of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) at www.imo.org .

Investigation and Consequences

When a cruise ship sinks, a thorough investigation is conducted to determine the cause of the incident. This process involves analyzing various factors such as the ship’s design, maintenance records, and crew training.

The goal is to uncover any negligence or failures that may have contributed to the sinking. Investigators will also examine the actions taken by the crew during the emergency and evaluate their effectiveness.

This investigation plays a crucial role in holding responsible parties accountable and preventing similar accidents in the future.

Determining the Cause

Determining the cause of a cruise ship sinking can be a complex task. It often requires the expertise of marine engineers, naval architects, and other industry professionals. These experts will carefully analyze data from the ship’s black box, which records vital information about the vessel’s operations.

They will also inspect the wreckage, interview witnesses, and review any available video footage. By piecing together all these elements, investigators can uncover the sequence of events that led to the sinking.

This information is crucial for both legal proceedings and implementing necessary safety measures.

Legal and Financial Implications

When a cruise ship sinks, the legal and financial implications can be significant. Passengers and crew members who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones may file lawsuits against the cruise line seeking compensation.

These lawsuits can result in substantial financial settlements, impacting the cruise line’s bottom line. Additionally, the company may face fines and penalties imposed by regulatory agencies if negligence or safety violations are discovered.

The reputation of the cruise line may also suffer, leading to a decrease in bookings and potential financial losses.

Changes to Cruise Industry Safety Policies

Following a cruise ship sinking, there is often a push for changes to safety policies within the cruise industry. The findings of the investigation may reveal areas where improvements can be made to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Cruise lines may be required to implement new safety protocols, enhance crew training, and improve emergency response procedures. Regulatory bodies may also introduce stricter regulations and inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.

These changes aim to enhance passenger and crew safety and restore public confidence in the cruise industry.

Preventing Future Incidents

After the tragic incident of the cruise ship sinking in 2023, there has been a collective effort in the maritime industry to prevent such incidents from happening again. Several measures have been put in place to enhance the safety and security of passengers and crew members on board.

Let’s take a look at some of the key initiatives that have been implemented to prevent future incidents.

Improved Navigation Systems

One of the crucial aspects of preventing cruise ship sinkings is enhancing the navigation systems on board. Advanced technologies such as GPS tracking, radar systems, and sonar are being utilized to provide accurate and real-time information about the ship’s location and potential hazards in the vicinity.

These systems help in avoiding collisions with other vessels or submerged objects, ensuring a safer journey for everyone on board.

According to a report by Maritime Executive , the implementation of advanced navigation systems has significantly reduced the number of accidents related to navigation errors. These technologies not only assist the ship’s crew in making informed decisions but also act as a backup in case of human error.

New Safety Protocols and Crew Training

Another crucial aspect of preventing future incidents is the implementation of new safety protocols and comprehensive crew training programs. Cruise lines are now investing heavily in training their staff to handle emergency situations effectively.

Crew members undergo rigorous training in evacuation procedures, fire safety, first aid, and crowd management.

By ensuring that the crew is well-prepared and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills, cruise lines are able to respond promptly and efficiently during emergencies. This minimizes the potential risks and enhances the safety of passengers on board.

According to statistics provided by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), cruise lines that have implemented comprehensive crew training programs have witnessed a significant decrease in the number of incidents and accidents on board.

Increased Lifeboat Capacity

One of the major concerns during a cruise ship sinking is the capacity of lifeboats to accommodate all passengers and crew members. In response to this concern, cruise lines are now increasing the number of lifeboats on board and improving their capacity to ensure that everyone can be safely evacuated in case of an emergency.

According to a study conducted by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), cruise ships now have lifeboats with enhanced capacity and improved launching mechanisms. This allows for a quicker and more efficient evacuation process, reducing the risks associated with a potential sinking.

By implementing these measures, cruise lines are taking proactive steps to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of everyone on board. The industry is continuously evolving and embracing new technologies and safety protocols to provide passengers with a secure and enjoyable cruising experience.

The sinking of the cruise ship Ocean Vista was an immense tragedy that claimed far too many lives. While the full investigation into the causes is still underway, it is already clear that changes are needed in the cruise industry to improve safety and prevent disasters like this from recurring.

Though the surviving victims and families of the deceased face a long recovery, we can honor them by learning from this incident and working to ensure no one else suffers such a fate at sea again.

Jennifer Morris is an avid solo travel adventurer who founded Solo Traveller after many years of journeying on her own around the world. She has backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents over the past decade, striking up conversations with locals along railway platforms, learning to cook regional dishes in home kitchens, and absorbing a global perspective while volunteering with various community initiatives.

With a Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer is passionate about responsible and meaningful travel that fosters cultural exchange. Whether trekking through the Atlas Mountains, sailing to Komodo National Park, or taking an overnight train across Eastern Europe - she is always seeking her next epic destination.

When not globetrotting, Jennifer calls Vancouver, Canada home. There she enjoys kayaking local waters, curling up with books on faraway places, and gearing up for her next solo backpacking trip. As the founder of SoloTraveller, she hopes to motivate and inform fellow solo explorers from all walks of life to take the leap into their own adventures.

Similar Posts

Celebrity Homes On Kiawah Island: A Look Inside The Luxury Estates

Nestled along the southern coast of South Carolina lies Kiawah Island, a 10,000-acre barrier island known for its championship golf courses, pristine beaches, and luxurious communities. Over the years, this secluded island paradise has become a haven for celebrities looking to escape the limelight and enjoy some privacy. If you’re short on time, here’s a…

What Is The Closest Canadian City To Chicago?

Chicago, Illinois is a major metropolitan area located in the Midwest region of the United States. Many people are curious what the closest major Canadian city is to the Windy City for various reasons from proximity for travel to cultural similarities. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The closest…

Celebrities Living In Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson, Wyoming is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes, upscale ski resorts, and affluent population. Over the years, a number of celebrities have chosen to call Jackson home due to its privacy, natural beauty, and easy access to world-class skiing and outdoor recreation. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question:…

How Long Does An Airport Background Check Take?

Getting a job at an airport often requires going through extensive background checks and waiting for security clearances. If you’ve applied for an airport job, you may be wondering, how long do airport background checks take? The process can vary depending on the role, but a standard airport employment background check often takes around 2-6…

What Was The Main Lesson Learned By Workers From The Great Railroad Strike Of 1877?

In July 1877, railroad workers across the United States launched a strike that paralyzed the nation’s transportation infrastructure and led to widespread unrest. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The main lesson learned by workers from the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was the need for unity and organization…

Why Can’t You Fly From Alaska To Russia?

Why can’t you fly from Alaska to Russia? With Alaska and Russia separated by only a narrow stretch of the Bering Strait, you might wonder why you can’t simply fly between these neighboring regions. The reality is complicated, with the answer lying in a web of political tensions, practical limitations, and regulatory hurdles. If you’re…

• Oceania Cruises

Irons in Staterooms

By BenMurphy , October 3, 2019 in Oceania Cruises

Recommended Posts

I have been speaking on line with someone who is in an Ocean view room who claims to have an iron in their room! 

Has something changed? 

I was of the understanding that the only irons for public use are in the laundry room.

I'm sure that someone here will know

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Flatbush Flyer

31 minutes ago, BenMurphy said: Hi all   I have been speaking on line with someone who is in an Ocean view room who claims to have an iron in their room!  Has something changed?  I was of the understanding that the only irons for public use are in the laundry room.   I'm sure that someone here will know thanks Josie x

The only clothes irons allowed/supplied on any Oceania ship are those in the public laundry facilities. And even those irons are plugged into timers.

BTW, if you haven't been on an Oceania ship since before mid-2018, the laundries are now free (both wash and dry)!

Rob the Cruiser

No way. Either they brought it aboard or a previous passenger did and the cabin attendant(s) hasn't seen it.

AFAIK  there are no irons in any of the cabins

They must have brought there or are pulling your leg

What ship are they on?

Irons are against the rules for a very good reason --- they can start a fire.  The very last thing you would want to do onboard a ship is start a fire.  Just look up the fire on the Star Princess -- 1 person killed, well over 100 cabins damaged.  See the images below.  That was from a cigarette, but the current used by an iron could very possibly start a fire as well.  We are lucky that O does provide irons, but whether they do or not, taking one aboard ship, if you could get it onboard, is only asking for trouble.  The biggest danger at sea is not sinking, it is fire.

Try Downy Wrinkle Releaser.  Works like a charm.  I don't cruise without it.

Charles4515

I used the irons in the Laundry room. Pretty handy that Oceania has laundry rooms. The first time I had the room to myself. The second time there was another person finishing up on one of the ironing boards. Don't need an iron in the stateroom.

3 hours ago, bbwex said: Irons are against the rules for a very good reason --- they can start a fire.  The very last thing you would want to do onboard a ship is start a fire.  Just look up the fire on the Star Princess -- 1 person killed, well over 100 cabins damaged.  See the images below.  That was from a cigarette, but the current used by an iron could very possibly start a fire as well.  We are lucky that O does provide irons, but whether they do or not, taking one aboard ship, if you could get it onboard, is only asking for trouble.  The biggest danger at sea is not sinking, it is fire.  

Check out the dive ship that 39 people died of fire in Calif over Labor Day.

Might not have been an iron but may have been caused by extension cords & too many charging devices on one outlet.

9 minutes ago, CU64 said: Check out the dive ship that 39 people died of fire in Calif over Labor Day. Might not have been an iron but may have been caused by extension cords & too many charging devices on one outlet.

So true.  The cause of the fire is ultimately immaterial, but you certainly don't want to be the one that started it.

10 hours ago, bbwex said:   Just look up the fire on the Star Princess -- 1 person killed, well over 100 cabins damaged.  See the images below.  That was from a cigarette,       

Improper cigarette disposal was never proven as the cause of the fire. No cause has been determined only supposition as stated in the final report as to cause.

Here's a link to the final report. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/547c706ae5274a4290000097/Star_Princess.pdf

Page 39 2.3.2 reads "In the absence of any evidence to the contrary, it is considered that the most likely source of ignition was a discarded cigarette end."

IMHO we weaken the argument for restricting smoking when incorrect statements are made regarding incidents such as the Star Princess fire.  Proponents for continued smoking on ships  simply point out the incorrect statements, which bolster their argument to resist change.

Thank you all for your kind responses and for confirming my belief that irons are strictly forbidden in state rooms. 

There are a few people that are claiming they had irons/boards in their rooms on board Riveria and one person in a B room and one in PH adamant that they have them in their rooms!

off to do some ironing now!

Rather amazing to say they have ironing boards in their room as well.  That's something I've never seen on any of the ships.

Not that I've ever seen an iron anywhere but in the laundry rooms as well.

I have been in a B & A  cabin on Riviera  & IME there was never an iron or board in the cabin

I think someone is confused or winding you up

They do have irons & boards in the laundry rooms

Not only are irons not allowed but if you leave an unattended cell phone charging in your cabin, the cabin attendant or butler will unplug it.  Fire is the biggest danger on the ship and I am glad that O is proactive about preventing it.

Thank You all for confirming this.  There all still a couple of people adamant that they have had irons in their staterooms  ☺️

4 hours ago, BenMurphy said: Thank You all for confirming this.  There all still a couple of people adamant that they have had irons in their staterooms  ☺️ Josie xx

ask them for photos  😅

Maybe they are talking about the P &  O  ship Oceana ???

37 minutes ago, LHT28 said: ask them for photos  😅   Maybe they are talking about the P &  O  ship Oceana ???

No! They are on Oceania FB page.  

32 minutes ago, BenMurphy said: No! They are on Oceania FB page.  

 I have never seen an Iron or board in any cabins on the Oceania  ships

maybe something new since  our last cruise in April   but I have my doubts 

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail Beyond the Ordinary with Oceania Cruises
• ANNOUNCEMENT: The Widest View in the Whole Wide World
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 10:06 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 09:00 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:42 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:01 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 06:19 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...