Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the loss of propulsion in heavy weather experienced by the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery on 4 November 2023 while crossing the Bay of Biscay, leading to over 100 injuries and one fatality.
Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Rob Loder, said:
While cruising remains safe and accidents rare, Spirit of Discovery’s violent motion in heavy weather caused injury to over 100 passengers and, very sadly, one passenger lost their life as a result of injuries sustained.
A complex sequence of events led to this accident and we have identified a number of clear lessons around vessel safety, crew decision-making and medical response. I am encouraged by the swift action taken by the vessel’s owner, manager and manufacturers, but I urge the cruise industry to learn the lessons from this tragic accident.
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