Numerous travelers aboard a cruise ship were rescued from a secluded island after the high-end vessel crashed into a reef and became stranded.
The Fiji Princess, operated by Blue Lagoon, found itself marooned near Monuriki Island, known as the scenic filming spot for the 2000 movie Cast Away starring Tom Hanks. Approximately 30 passengers were successfully rescued and transported to the shore, along with their belongings, the day after the ship struck the reef.
At dawn, a ferry carried the passengers to safety before relocating them and 30 crew members to Port Denarau.
According to the Fiji Navy’s statement to ABC News, “All passengers were rescued safely yesterday and transferred to [Port] Denarau. Some crew members remain on board. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and everyone is accounted for.”
Blue Lagoon Cruises mentioned that an inquiry is ongoing into the incident, with initial findings pointing to a “severe squall” causing the ship’s anchor to drag towards the nearby reef, resulting in its grounding.
They stated, “Weather conditions during the ship’s anchoring were calm; however, a severe squall led to the anchor dragging towards a nearby reef where the ship got stuck.”
To mitigate environmental risks, any pumpable fuel or oil onboard the ship was eliminated, as confirmed by the company.
An Australian salvage specialist had been present since Sunday to supervise the recovery operations, as per the company’s update.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (Msaf) dispatched officers on Saturday to evaluate the vessel. A spokesperson noted, “Preliminary inspections revealed significant damage to the ship’s rear left side, including the area housing the steering equipment. The vessel’s bottom part also sustained damage.
“Additionally, the ship encountered engine failure and was reportedly taking on water post-impact. Due to rough sea conditions and strong waves, officials could not safely inspect the vessel underwater at that time.”
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