The ferry MS Romantika became detached from the quay in Eemshaven due to a strong gust of wind, causing damage to the ship. There were no passengers on board the ship at the time of the incident. This is reported by Holland Norway Lines (HNL), the ferry service that sails back and forth between Eemshaven in Groningen and Kristiansand in Norway several times a week.
In a statement, CEO Morten Aggvin says that the ferry broke loose due to a ‘suddenly strong wind with a wind force 11’. The MS Romantika suffered damage and was moved to a ‘quiet place in the harbour’, where an investigation is currently being carried out into the cause and consequences of the incident.
The police say that the accident occurred at the front of the ship. A mooring line came loose, after which several mooring lines soon came loose. “We understand that three other ships were damaged after this.” A spokeswoman for HNL says that she has “no specific information” about possible damage to other ships.
The police are still investigating how it is possible that the mooring lines have come loose. “We are now looking at any culpable fault. We look at the role of the skipper and the shipping company. For example, has the skipper been well prepared for the changed weather conditions?”
Departure cancelled
The ship was supposed to sail from Eemshaven in Groningen to Kristiansand in Norway tomorrow, but HNL has canceled this trip. Due to damage to the ship and the ongoing investigation, Holland Norway Lines is forced to cancel the sailing on Thursday, February 2. We regret the situation and will now focus on a good settlement for affected travelers.”
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