After issuing an SOS message over the weekend, 1,300 passengers onboard the Viking Sky cruise ship were airlifted from the ship by the Norwegian coast guard.
The SOS signal was sent due to apparent engine problems in bad weather. At the time the signal was sent, the ship was reported as having one working engine and was sailing in strong winds.
Shortly after the Viking Sky cruise ship sent out the SOS, southern Norway rescue authorities sent out four helicopters to airlift passengers from the boat. In addition to the helicopters, coast guard and sea rescue boats were also sent to help accommodate the ship’s evacuation. Another larger vessel was sent to tow the Viking Sky into port.
Given the risk that inclement weather can present to ships at sea, resulting in cruise ship tilting and injuries to passengers, the decision to evacuate passengers was arguably a wise one.
The Viking Sky was on its way from Tromso to Stavanger when the SOS call was made. One of the main reasons why the crew made the decision was the risk that ships encounter with high winds and hidden reefs in the area. In fact, the location where the ship eventually laid anchor is known for being difficult to navigate, even in calm weather. Authorities reported that 17 passengers had been taken to the hospital after being evacuated from the ship.
Operated by the Norwegian firm Viking Ocean Cruisers, the Viking Sky is a modern cruise ship launched in 2017 with a capacity of 930 passengers plus crew.
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Related Resources:
https://www.thelocal.no/20190323/norway-airlifting-1300-passengers-off-sos-cruise-ship-emergency-services