Passengers and crew on the Crown Princess had some unexpected drama on the ship’s 14-day round trip voyage from Sydney. In New Zealand’s Milford Sound, an area notorious for unpredictable weather conditions, the 3,000-passenger ship encountered very strong gusts of winds, causing it to list to one side.
According to online reports from both passengers and crew, the dramatic listing caused tables to tip over, items to scatter, and those aboard to be thrown about. The pool’s water also spilled over onto the deck. The on-board gift shops saw perfume and skincare items fly off the shelves, and glass displays fell apart. Footage from inside one of the ship’s showed the lurching motion caused by the winds, as staff went running.
In all, thirteen passengers and three crew members suffered minor injuries as a result.
Princess Cruises issued a statement addressing the incident, saying: “Crown Princess encountered strong winds during a course change, causing the ship to briefly tilt beyond its usual movement before stabilizing. Water from the Lido Deck pool flooded a dining area but was quickly cleaned up, and some of the shops and galleys had items coming off the shelves.
Princess said that there was no structural damage to the ship, its crew responded quickly to correct the situation, and at no point was the safety of the ship compromised. It noted that the remainder of the voyage would continue as planned.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
