Propulsion Problems Strand Holland America Ship

1,350 passengers on the Holland America cruise ship, MS Veendam, were sent home after their cruise was cancelled due to technical problems.

The ship, which was due to embark on a seven-night sailing from Quebec City to Boston on Saturday, wasn't able to leave the dock and remains at the Quebec City port. The cruise line said there are problems with the ship's propulsion systems; one of the vessel's propellers required repairs.

Holland America has compensated the passengers for the cancellation. The cruise line also pointed out that all guest services and safety systems on the ship are fully functional.

The Quebec City port said six more cruise ships are scheduled to dock on Saturday, and the Holland America ship may need to be moved around if it is not ready to leave by then. On Monday, the ship had to be moved to another berth to accommodate other ship traffic, with tugs needed because of high winds.

Divers are currently in the water working to repair the luxury liner’s mechanical failures. Parts needed to repair the propeller arrived by plane Wednesday and were being tested after being installed.

The Veendam is due in Boston before this Saturday, when it is scheduled to leave again for Quebec City.