A 14-day cruise from Sydney to New Zealand turned into a terrifying ordeal when the Crown Princess encountered severe weather conditions near Milford Sound. 16 passengers and crew were injured as the vessel took a dangerous tilt, causing chaos in restaurants, kitchens, and onboard stores.

Severe Turbulence Hits Crown Princess

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) confirmed that rough seas and high winds forced the ship to change course, leading to intense rocking. The New Zealand MetService had issued warnings of strong winds and rough sea conditions, which may have contributed to the ship’s instability.

Footage from the ship’s kitchen and dining areas revealed the extent of the turbulence:

• Tables and chairs slid uncontrollably across dining rooms.
• Passengers clung to furniture to avoid being thrown.
• Pots, pans, and food trays crashed onto the floor in the kitchen.
• The onboard pool overflowed, spilling water onto the decks.
• Gift shop merchandise, including perfumes, skincare products, and designer bags, was scattered as glass displays collapsed.

One passenger described the moment as “like a scene from a disaster movie”, while another recalled, “I was walking my lap on the deck when suddenly the ship tilted. I had to grab onto the railing to stay upright.”

Crew’s Rapid Response Ensures Passenger Safety

Despite the widespread panic, Princess Cruises issued a statement reassuring travelers that the ship’s safety was never compromised. Crew members acted swiftly to stabilize the vessel and assist injured passengers. The cruise line emphasized that its staff are trained for emergency situations, and protocols were followed to correct the ship’s course.

According to Maritime New Zealand, ships operating in New Zealand’s Fiordland region must follow strict navigation guidelines to minimize risks associated with unpredictable weather patterns. The agency is reviewing the incident to determine whether additional safety measures should be enforced.

Impacts on Future Cruises

The Crown Princess continued its voyage following the incident, but passengers remained on edge. Some are questioning whether cruise safety measures need to be upgraded to better handle extreme sea conditions.

Cruise safety experts recommend that travelers:

• Stay informed about weather conditions before departure.
• Familiarize themselves with onboard safety protocols.
• Follow crew instructions during unexpected events.

While Princess Cruises maintains that no long-term damage was sustained by the Crown Princess, maritime authorities in Australia and New Zealand will likely assess the event to enhance cruise safety regulations.

For now, this incident serves as a stark reminder that while cruises offer luxury and relaxation, nature’s unpredictability can turn a dream vacation into a nerve-wracking experience.

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