The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published a report detailing the propulsion failure of the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery during severe weather in the Bay of Biscay on November 4, 2023. This incident resulted in over 100 injuries and one fatality. Shortly after 12:30 PM, the vessel lost propulsion, leading to violent motion that exposed the propellers, causing an automatic shutdown. Eight seriously injured passengers were hospitalized, with one later succumbing to their injuries.
Key safety issues highlighted include the unexpected positioning of both propulsion pods at 90 degrees to the vessel’s heading and the crew’s failure to effectively challenge the decision to navigate through the Bay. Additionally, the lack of a mass casualty incident plan stretched the medical team, and delays in recognizing a spinal injury led to inadequate treatment for one passenger.
In response, the report recommends that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency advocate for electronic inclinometers in international carriage requirements and calls for improved instruction manuals from classification societies. The Cruise Lines International Association is urged to enhance the medical staffing on vessels and update policies regarding securing furniture during rough weather. Chief Inspector Rob Loder emphasized the need for the cruise industry to learn from this tragic event to improve safety measures.
