Not So Smooth Sailing on the Antarctic

Imagine sailing along on a cruise in the Antarctic when a storm approaches, with high winds and waves pushing the vessel into rocks where it is stranded. This is exactly the scenario that the MV Ocean Nova found itself in on a cruise in February; the first this year, but not the first of its kind.

Popularity of cruises to the Antarctic has increased significantly over the past several years. In response, several cruise lines venture into the breathtaking yet tumultuous areas; large cruise ships as well as smaller lines such as the MV ships. Concerns have been raised regarding vessels entering these inhospitable waters unprepared for the conditions that exist, and even more so since there have been several incidences in just the past two years.

While no traumatic injuries have been sustained as result of the incidences, the potential is sobering. In these same waters in January of 2007, the MS Nordcapp went aground, in November of 2007 the MV Explorer sank, in December of 2008, the MV Ushaia was grounded and now in February 2009 it was the MV Ocean Nova that went aground as it was pushed against rocks by storm winds and angry waves.

With this latest incident, the question of the safety of cruise ships and the tourism trade to the Antarctic are again at the forefront. It is estimated that many more cruise ships are venturing further and further into more isolated areas due to the effects of global warming. Previously, these waterways were impassable by cruise ships because of ice formations.

Safe tourism is always being urged by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators, but there are no real safeguards that can regulate cruise ship sightseeing in the area. With treacherous waters and challenging weather conditions, this raises numerous red flags about the safety of cruise ships in this region.

Fortunately, the MV Ocean Nova passengers were transferred to another ship so they were able to continue on their scheduled journey. The guests were in good spirits despite their experience in rough waters. The Ocean Nova itself sailed back to Ushaia, Argentina so that it could be meticulously inspected before heading out for its next sailing in late February. There was no significant damage done to the hull, which is reinforced to handle diverse conditions. Just as importantly, there was no environmental impact by the incident, either.