The TUI Cruises vessel Mein Schiff 3 collided with two container ships as it departed the German port of Bremerhaven on Oct. 25, authorities said, sustaining heavy damage to lifeboats and other fittings but causing no reported injuries.
What happened
The cruise ship was preparing to leave Bremerhaven for the Canary Islands with tugboat assistance when a gust of wind pushed it toward two moored container ships, according to a Bremen police news release and video footage captured aboard the cruise ship. The starboard-side lifeboats on the Mein Schiff 3 struck the side of the container vessel MSC Victorine and other moored tonnage.
“The smaller [container] ship sustained minor damage, while the large one suffered considerable damage. The collision tore open several meters of the port side of the larger container ship and deformed the container guides,” Bremen police said.
Damage, safety and operational response
Images released after the incident showed crushed lifeboat casings and shattered glass barriers on the cruise ship’s exterior. German authorities imposed a sailing ban on all three vessels involved while inspections were conducted. TUI Cruises canceled the Mein Schiff 3’s remaining voyage after the inspections found repairs were needed at a shipyard, the company said.
- No injuries were reported and there was no immediate sign of water ingress.
- Lifeboats and exterior fittings on the Mein Schiff 3 sustained what officials described as considerable damage.
- All three vessels were subject to a temporary sailing ban pending inspection and repairs.
Context
Bremerhaven is a major North Sea port used by container ships and cruise lines. The Mein Schiff 3 had been scheduled to sail to the Canary Islands. Video of the incident shows how strong winds and close quarters during tug-assisted departures can create hazards for large passenger ships and nearby moored vessels.
Authorities and the shipowner are conducting assessments to determine the full extent of structural damage and the timeline for repairs. The incident has interrupted the Mein Schiff 3’s itinerary while the vessel is routed to a shipyard for required work.
