A shipping disaster off the Isle of Wight has sparked chaos after 16 containers full of bananas, plantains, and avocados plunged into the sea. The luxury P&O cruise ship Iona was forced to delay its Southampton departure.
Fruit Container Spill Delays Luxury Cruise
The Iona, carrying 5,200 holidaymakers on a 14-day trip to Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, was set to sail on Saturday. Instead, it remains docked after fruit-filled containers tumbled off the cargo ship Baltic Klipper near the Nab Tower lighthouse at around 6pm.
A P&O Cruises spokeswoman said the Iona has now been cleared to set sail by Sunday lunchtime.
Containers Wash Ashore, Emergency Teams Rush In
HM Coastguard reported two containers washed up at Selsey on the mainland, sparking an immediate cordon and emergency response.
- 8 containers of bananas
- 2 containers of plantains
- 1 container of avocados
- 5 empty containers
Coastguard crews, West Sussex Fire and Rescue, and Sussex Police are on site, warning the public to stay clear of the wreckage.
Authorities Issue Warning on Wreckage Law
“All wreck material found in the UK must be reported to HM Coastguard’s Receiver of Wreck,” a spokesman said. “Anyone failing to declare items within 28 days is breaking the law and could face further action.”
Officials are working with the cargo ship’s owners to recover the lost containers. Thankfully, no crew members were injured.
If you spot any containers floating in the water, call HM Coastguard immediately on 0344 382 0560.
