Greek cruise liner in dramatic Antarctica distress (video) tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Greek cruise liner in dramatic Antarctica distress (video)

Posted by keeptalkinggreece in Very Mix

What is a Greek doing in the Antarctica? Good question! Cruiser Clelia II ran into weather trouble and rough sea down there in Antarctica, lost an engine, had its windows shattered and happy cruise passengers puke breakfast, lunch and dinner, all three in one row, re-painting the luxury cabins walls.

“The Clelia II ran into weather related trouble on Tuesday, December 7th, 2010 while traveling in rough seas north of the South Shetland Islands in the Drake Passage. A rogue wave of 30ft crested the bow of the ship, breaking a window on the ship’s bridge and causing electrical damage that temporarily impacted both communications and engine performance. The Clelia II called for assistance and was aided by the NG Explorer. None of the 88 passengers on board was injured, though one of the 77 crew sustained minor injuries.

Several media sources are mistakenly reporting that Polar Cruises is the owner/operator the Clelia II. The Clelia II is actually operated by Travel Dynamics International of New York and owned by Helios Shipping of Piraeus, Greece.” (source: polarcruises)

International media reported that the majority of passengers were Americans, though some Bulgarian were on board as well. I have no information if Greek tried the adventures in Antarctic high and extremely rough seas. Currently Clelia II is limping toward the port of Ushuia in Argentina.

The small but majestic and robust ship offers luxurious tours and cruises in Antarctica. For some grands you can enjoy a luxury expedition filming penguins and breaking icebergs.

All these you can do if the wind is not rushing with 90 km per hour (55 miles) and  if waves do not toss you left and right, forth and back. Yet my old sea dog soul  got a real uplift watching the video and turned green of envy.

Video: The video footage was shot by an amateur on board of a ship coming to aid Clelia II.

            Do not watch if you easily get sea-sick

The Argentine Navy says the Clelia II is heading for the port of Ushuia at the extreme south of the country at about 5 mph. It says all passengers are safe and it is being accompanied by an Argentine naval vessel.

The ship declared an emergency on Tuesday when it was northeast of the Shetland Islands and about 500 miles from Ushuaia. The ship set out from Ushuaia on Nov. 30 and was scheduled to return on Wednesday.