Damaged Anthem of the Seas Arrives to Cape Liberty

The storm-damaged Royal Caribbean cruise ship Anthem of the Seas returned to Cape Liberty, New Jersey, yesterday evening, where it will now be examined by a team of inspectors from US Coast Guard Sector New York.

Coast Guard officials will inspect the vessel to verify the extent of damages and ensure repairs are undertaken before the ship departs on its next voyage.

The Bahamian-flagged vessel was hit by a severe storm with 75 mph winds and nine-metre waves on Sunday off Cape Hatteras which damaged the ship’s public areas and cabins.

Royal Caribbean said that “much of the superficial damage caused by the storm has been repaired. We expect to resume her planned itinerary for next week’s cruise.”

Nonetheless, the company said that it identified gaps in the voyage planning system and started working on improving the performance. While the Sunday’s storm exceeded forecasts, the company notes that it has a responsibility to eliminate every surprise.

“As of today, we are strengthening our storm avoidance policy, and have added resources at our Miami headquarters to provide additional guidance to our ships’ captains,” Royal Caribbean added.

Anthem of the Seas departed from Cape Liberty on Saturday for a 7-day roundtrip to the Bahamas carrying about 4,500 guests and 1,600 crew.

“Of more than 6000 people on board, only four minor injuries were reported,” Royal Caribbean said in a statement.

The cruise ship remained seaworthy and maneuverable after the storm.

“Anthem of the Seas guests will receive a full refund & a future cruise certificate for 50% of the cruise fare paid,” the cruise line said.

World Maritime News Staff