Article:
Safety Experts Criticize 2019 Cruise Mishap Leading to Blackout
Safety specialists are up in arms following a harrowing incident involving the Viking Sky cruise ship in March 2019. The vessel, which suffered a power blackout in stormy weather, narrowly averted a catastrophic situation along the treacherous Norwegian coastline.
Risky Evacuations Carried Out
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority’s report revealed that the Viking Sky was perilously close to grounding in a region infamous for maritime disasters. Subsequent to losing power, the ship was forced to anchor in turbulent seas. Shockingly, the report stated that the ship should not have set sail from Tromso in the first place.
Report Highlights “Insufficient Lubricating Oil”
Following a tumultuous ordeal where over 400 passengers were airlifted to safety amidst high waves and injuries, the Viking Sky managed to sail with the remaining passengers to the port of Molde. However, the investigation disclosed a grave issue – all diesel generators lacked sufficient lubricating oil, leading to one generator being inoperable.
The Safety Investigation Authority underscored the lack of crew training in handling power outages efficiently, citing the need for improved preparedness to navigate such emergencies seamlessly. The report laid out a series of safety recommendations to avert such incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The Viking Sky incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols and crew training in the cruise industry. The mishap underscores the critical need for comprehensive safety measures to prevent potentially disastrous situations at sea.
FAQ
How many passengers were onboard the Viking Sky cruise ship during the blackout incident?
The Viking Sky cruise ship was carrying 1,374 passengers at the time of the blackout incident in March 2019.
What was the main issue highlighted in the safety report regarding the Viking Sky’s blackout?
The safety report pointed out that the Viking Sky faced a critical shortage of lubricating oil in its diesel generators, leading to one of the generators becoming inoperable during the blackout.
What actions were taken following the Viking Sky incident to enhance safety measures in the maritime industry?
In the wake of the incident, the Norwegian Maritime Authority issued a safety bulletin mandating all shipping companies to ensure an adequate supply of lubricating oil to engines before setting sail, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
