VIDEO: Massive Wave Disables Cruise Ship in Antarctic

A cruise ship, carrying 165 people back to Argentina after an Antarctic expedition, lost power to one of its engines midday Tuesday in rough seas.

The Chilean Navy reported that one of the ship’s engines broke down causing serious steering limitations. Crew onboard the CLELIA II was able to temporarily repair the problem and the ship is now slowly making its towards Ushuaia in southern Argentina.

This 290-foot luxury yacht like vessel broke down during rough weather in Drake Passage where seas were rough and winds howled at 56 mph. Crew reported that a massive 30- foot wave caused electrical failure disabling the port engine, knocking out the ships communication system and breaking windows. Only one of the 77-crew members onboard suffered minor injuries. None of the ships 88 passengers were injured.

Another expedition cruise ship, the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC came to the CLELIA II's aid and stayed close while crew made repairs. When repairs were complete the National Geographic, along with a Chilean Navy vessel, escorted the damaged Clelia II across the passage.

The Polar Cruises’ ship, now travelling at about 3 knots, will arrive in Ushuaia Wednesday as scheduled.



Photo courtesy of Polar Cruises
Video: ITN c/o YouTube