Government Launches Probe
The UK government, in collaboration with the Marine Accident Investigation Branch [MAIB], has initiated an investigation into the recent Saga cruise that took a terrifying turn when the Spirit of Discovery faced a severe storm in the Bay of Biscay.
The Department of Transport is working with the MAIB to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Nightmare Voyage Unfolds
Passengers aboard the Spirit of Discovery endured a nightmare as the cruise ship battled relentless waves, some reaching up to 50ft, for an alarming 18 hours off the French coast.
The cruise, catering to those over 50, turned into a scene of chaos and pandemonium, with passengers and furniture tossed across the ship.
Passenger Descriptions of Chaos
Describing the ordeal, passengers shared their experiences of the cruise turning into “absolute pandemonium.”
The ship’s violent swaying led to injuries among the passengers, with broken bones reported, and one person even requiring resuscitation.
The traumatic incident prompted fears among passengers, with some expressing concerns about the cruise becoming the “next Titanic.”
Medical Response and Cut-Short Cruise
Following the storm-induced chaos, eight ambulances awaited passengers at Portsmouth port, Hampshire, where four individuals were subsequently taken to the hospital due to serious injuries.
The 14-day Canary cruise on the Spirit of Discovery, designed for a leisurely journey, was abruptly cut short as a result of the perilous weather conditions.
Government Confirms Investigation
A spokeswoman for the Department of Transport confirmed that preliminary inquiries are underway in collaboration with the MAIB.
The government is actively looking into the circumstances of the ill-fated cruise, aiming to determine the causes and consequences of the storm-related incident.
Saga’s Response and Apologies
Saga Cruises, the company operating the Spirit of Discovery, issued a statement expressing regret for the incident.
The cruise line assured affected guests that they would be reimbursed for the cost of the disrupted voyage. While emphasizing the uncontrollable nature of the weather, Saga Cruises extended sincere apologies to all those impacted by the traumatic experience.
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