Holland America ships damaged in berthing mishap in Vancouver

Nieuw Amsterdam (Photo: MarineTraffic.com/Rurik Enriquez)

Two cruise ships operated by Holland America Line were involved in an incident in the Port of Vancouver in British Columbia on Saturday, May 4.

Oosterdam was manoeuvring to dock stern-to-stern with the already berthed Nieuw Amsterdam when the former vessel struck the latter’s starboard side at around 06:50 local time.

Nieuw Amsterdam’s captain came on the ship’s public address system and ordered that the stern be evacuated.

Oosterdam reportedly sustained only minimal damage. However, the impact left six aft stateroom verandas on Nieuw Amsterdam in need of repair, forcing re-accommodation of the guests booked in the affected cabins on the vessel’s upcoming voyage.

No injuries or oil spills have been reported.

Witnesses on Nieuw Amsterdam claimed they saw Oosterdam “swinging” as it made another attempt to dock.

Holland America has since assured the public that the necessary repairs have been carried out and that the incident has not negatively affected either ship’s itinerary.


Baird Maritime

The best maritime site on the web. The sea's our scene!