While attempting to leave the port of Bremerhaven, the cruise ship Mein Schiff 3, carrying 3,350 people on board, struck cargo vessels moored in the port due to a powerful gust of wind. As a result, the trip to the Canary Islands had to be canceled, and the liner was sent for repairs, AFP reported.
None of the 2,428 tourists and 922 crew members on board were injured. According to Bremen police, the smaller container ship sustained minor damage, while the larger one suffered “significant” damage. The cruise liner itself received “substantial damage” to its lifeboats, cranes, and hull plating.
Tour operator TUI Cruises emphasized that it regrets the cancellation of the cruise but called the decision “the only responsible one.” The water police are investigating the incident.
In a video recorded by an eyewitness — whose authenticity was confirmed by the dpa agency — the liner can be seen leaving the port accompanied by tugboats amid rough sea conditions. The distance to the container ship moored at the quay gradually decreases, after which the liner collides with it.