A government investigation into the catastrophic Spirit of Discovery cruise that left 100 passengers injured has now confirmed that one person has died as a result of the incident. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has released an interim report detailing the events that unfolded during the cruise in the Bay of Biscay on November 4, 2023.
The 14-day Canary Island voyage, operated by Saga Cruises, turned into a nightmare when the ship encountered severe storms and 30-foot waves off the French coast. The vessel’s propulsion system malfunctioned, causing it to violently turn and leave passengers and crew members fearing for their lives. The terrifying ordeal led some passengers to describe the chaos as resembling scenes from the “Titanic.”
The incident, which occurred around 12:30 pm on November 4, resulted in over 100 passengers being injured. The ship endured force 11 winds and extremely rough seas, causing internal and external damage. The vessel remained caught in the storm for approximately 18 hours before it could safely resume its journey.
When the ship finally docked at Portsmouth on November 6, a convoy of ambulances was on standby to transport the injured to Queen Alexandra Hospital. The MAIB report confirmed that one of the severely injured passengers, who was initially hospitalized, later succumbed to their injuries.
The MAIB’s investigation is examining all aspects of the accident, including the ship’s loss of propulsion, the crew’s response, and the medical care provided to the injured passengers. The interim report highlights that the full investigation is nearing completion, with a draft report currently being prepared for stakeholder consultation.
Passengers who experienced the traumatic event described scenes of “pandemonium” on board. One woman recalled seeing medical staff overwhelmed as they tended to people with broken bones, stretchers, and those in need of resuscitation. “Things were flying everywhere, and people were being thrown all over the place,” she said. “It was petrifying.”
In response to the disaster, Saga Cruises CEO Nigel Blanks issued an apology to passengers, acknowledging the trauma they faced during the voyage. The company has since offered counselling services and refunds ranging from £3,000 to £6,000 per cabin, depending on size and location.
Blanks emphasized that while the weather was beyond their control, the company understands the distress passengers endured. He reassured affected customers in a statement, expressing his regret over the events that transpired and his commitment to addressing their concerns.
The MAIB’s final report will provide a comprehensive analysis of the disaster, with further updates expected as the investigation progresses.
