How cruise ship captains avoid disaster in treacherous conditions

“All ports, regardless of weather conditions, have their own problems regarding berth direction, maneuvering space and how the wind affects the harbor area,” explained Captain Royer Robertsen, who works for the Norwegian line Havila Voyages, which operates scheduled services. . services along the Norwegian coast, serving some of the most isolated communities.

“During every docking, we constantly assess the situation to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew and ship is taken into account and we do not compromise on this issue. If mooring conditions are less than ideal, it is often possible to find an alternative mooring that is better positioned to accommodate the wind direction. Not being able to dock is unusual.”

4. Changing the time of departure or arrival at the port.

It is not uncommon for inclement weather to threaten as ships try to figure out the best time to arrive or depart, although in extreme circumstances this can mean cruises may start or end later than planned.

In September 2022, at least five cruise ships were unable to return to their Florida ports as Category 4 Hurricane Ian hit the Sunshine State, forcing the closure of three cruise ports.

Instead of being able to disembark as planned, thousands of cruise passengers were trapped at sea as the ships stayed safely out of the storm’s path and returned back one or two days later than planned once the hurricane had passed.

5. We swim in search of shelter

Cruise ships can often outrun a storm, but if conditions become too harsh or unavoidable, they can seek shelter by seeking shelter on the leeward side of an island or by sailing into a sheltered bay.

Captains can use their experience and knowledge of the area to find such shelters. Captain Robertsen explains: “Because Havila Voyages only sails between Bergen in southern Norway and Kirkenes in the north, my crew and I have incredibly detailed knowledge of the route and the ports we visit, which is invaluable in challenging conditions. »

6. Battening down the hatches

If ships are caught in a storm, this centuries-old maritime term remains in force today. On the sailing ships from which it originated, this meant securing the ship’s hatches (doors) with wooden or metal slats (rods) to prevent them from swinging open and allowing seawater to flood the lower decks—a similar prerequisite on modern ships.

“Before encountering adverse weather conditions, our preparation includes securing heavy objects, closing portholes, mufflers (metal or wood shutters installed on portholes) and blinds as needed, and emptying swimming pools and hot tubs,” explains Captain Davor Dubravica from Fred Olsen. Cruise lines.

“We inform guests and crew about severe weather conditions, and each department on board, including deck, engine and hotel (accommodation), has their own checklists for severe weather conditions that they refer to.”