Grand Princess Experiences Engine Hiccups

A port-side engine died on Grand Princess cruise ship while the ship was heading on an Alaskan cruise, forcing the ship to return to the port of Seattle, according to the US Coast Guard.

 
The Princess Cruises-owned ship, which has had several similar hiccups, was said to had been assisted by a tug to return to the port safely having steamed her way almost to Kingston.

Princess Cruises spokesperson Julie Benson said in a statement: “Grand Princess has returned to the Port of Seattle, in consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard, following an earlier issue with one of the ship’s motors.

At no time was guest safety impacted as the ship had propulsion and steering control. As a precaution the ship is returning to port for a safety check and we hope to depart again later this evening. We will keep passengers fully informed.”

The ship spent around four hours in the port undergoing repairs and left Seattle in the evening at around 10 PM.

[mappress]
World Maritime News Staff, August 6, 2014