Berthed Cruise Ship Hits Cement Carrier

The cruise ship Seabourn Encore broke free from its moorings in high winds at Timaru in New Zealand on Sunday, hitting the cement carrier Milburn Carrier II.

According to local media, the cement carrier’s hull and Seabourn Encore’s stern were damaged. No one was injured in the incident. 

The cruise ship became stuck between two wharves, and pilot and tug boats held her in position while the wind subsided.

The cruise ship was unable to leave Timaru as scheduled on Sunday evening. A Maritime NZ spokesman said it had been detained by the harbormaster.
 
The 40,350 gross ton Seabourn Encore entered service in 2016. She arrived in Timaru, on the east coast of the South Island, on Sunday morning and is currently on a 43-day voyage from Singapore due to end in Auckland on February 18.

New Zealand authorities have started an inquiry into the incident.