MSC containership damaged in collision with cruise ship in Bremerhaven

A cruise ship collided with two containerships while leaving the German port of Bremerhaven on Sunday, October 25. Strong winds linked to storm Manja affected the area at the time. Splash 247 reported that one of the ships, MSC Victorine, suffered a 10-metre tear in its hull.

The 16,520-TEU MSC Victorine, built in 2023, was berthed at the container terminal when Mein Schiff 3 struck it at around 5:30 pm. The impact damaged the containership’s hull above the waterline, as well as some containers and deck structures. The smaller MSC Anne F was also involved and sustained minor damage. No water entered the ships.

The collision also damaged several lifeboats and their launching equipment aboard Mein Schiff 3. Two tugboats assisting the cruise ship reportedly suffered damage. The cruise ship, which had 2,428 passengers and 922 crew members on board, returned to the terminal with tug assistance. No injuries were reported. MSC Victorine remained in Bremerhaven instead of continuing to Hamburg.

TUI Cruises has cancelled Mein Schiff 3’s planned cruise to the Canary Islands because the vessel needs urgent repairs. Bremen police are investigating the collision and examining whether the cruise ship’s captain failed to exercise due care. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

 

Picture: CruiseOfficerAlex