Cruise Ship Hits Rocks in Antarctica

The Norwegian Coastal Voyage (NCV) Nordkapp struck rocks as it entered the volcanic caldera of Deception Island, near the Antarctic peninsula, earlier this week. The picture at the right shows the narrow entrance to this volcanic harbor. No passengers or crew were injured. The ship did suffer significant damage to her outer hull, and there was a small oil spill. The accident, accompanied by the increased number of large cruise ships sailing to Antarctica, raises questions about potential environmental and safety issues. The passengers and non-essential crew were transferred to the Nordnorge, a sister ship of the Nordkapp, and taken back to Ushuaia, Argentina.

I cruised to Antarctica in January 2005, and it was both memorable and remarkable. I can certainly understand why more and more people are choosing to cruise to this remote part of our world.

The Nordkapp is a relatively small ship (less than 400 onboard), but some larger cruise ships with thousands of passengers are cruising Antarctic waters. Is this a disaster waiting to happen?
Cruise Ship Hits Rocks in Antarctica

February 14 Update on Environmental Impact on Antarctica

Ice Patrol Ship HMS Endurance Comes to Rescue of Nordkapp Passengers

Press Releases from Norwegian Coastal Voyage on Status of Nordkapp Accident in Antarctica

Deception Island Photo (c) Linda Garrison