The cruise ship Britannia, operated by P&O Cruises, found itself in a delicate situation last Sunday (August 27) when it collided with an oil tanker in the port of Palma de Mallorca, Spain. According to the Balearic Islands Port Authority, the accident occurred while the cruise ship was docked. However, strong winds released it from its mooring lines, resulting in a collision with an oil transport ship.
Video: P&O Britannia crashes into oil tanker during storm in Mallorca
Source: Luxury Travel Docs
Weather accident causes collision between cruise ship and oil transport ship
According to P&O Cruises, hundreds of tourists were on board the Britannia at the time of the collision.
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The company released a statement saying the incident was related to adverse weather conditions.
Additionally, P&O Cruises stressed that only “a small number of people suffered minor injuries” and that these passengers were promptly treated at the ship’s medical center.
According to AccuWeather, the collision occurred during a severe storm characterized by wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour.
The Britannia’s structural damage was extensive, prompting authorities to order an early return to the English city of Southampton, the cruise’s departure point.
Structural damage means cruise ship requires fewer passengers to return to Southampton
To ensure everyone’s safety, it was decided that the ship would return with a reduced passenger capacity.
The Britannia, which began its journey on August 18, had planned a return trip to destinations including Cadiz and Ibiza before the incident.
“A limited number of guests and crew on board have been advised that they will disembark the ship and return to Southampton (or departure point) via flight and transfer. Guests who remain on board can enjoy the entertainment and activities planned for the rest of the trip,” concluded the P&O Cruises spokesperson to the American newspaper USA Today.
About P&O Cruises and its cruises
P&O Cruises ships generally offer a range of amenities and activities on board, such as gourmet restaurants, bars, swimming pools, gyms, spas and live entertainment.
P&O Cruises cruises are known for offering a classic, elegant experience with a touch of British elegance.
This may include formal dining options, elegant attire on some evenings and an atmosphere of relaxation and comfort on board.
P&O Cruises also offers family programs, activities for children and teenagers, and shore excursions to help passengers explore the destinations they visit.