Carnival cruise heads for port

14 February 2013 08:52

An engine fire left passengers on board the Carnival Triumph stranded off the coast of Mexico (AP)

An engine fire left passengers on board the Carnival Triumph stranded off the coast of Mexico (AP)

A cruise ship is being towed to port in Alabama after an engine fire left it stricken off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

Carnival Cruise Lines president Gerry Cahill said the company was working hard to ensure passengers on Carnival Triumph were as comfortable as possible while the vessel made its way to port.

Mr Cahill told reporters in Miami that most of the 23 public restrooms are working, as well as some cabin bathrooms, and passengers have running water for showers.

He added: "We're terribly sorry for the inconvenience, discomfort, and frustration our guests are feeling."

His comments came after passengers complained of odours from the vessel's backed-up toilets as it drifted in the Gulf of Mexico following the incident. The situation underpins the importance of taking out cruise travel insurance before setting sail.

Brent Nutt of Texas, whose wife Bethany is on the ship, told the CNN Network she said in a telephone call there was a sickening odour on board and disputes were breaking out over limited food supplies.

The 893-foot (272-metre) vessel, carrying 3,143 passengers and 1,086 crew, has been running on emergency generator power since Sunday. The ship left Galveston, Texas on Thursday and it was scheduled to return there on Monday, but is now expected to arrive in Mobile by Thursday.

Latest news

More
NEWS HOME NEWS ARCHIVE
Get a Quote
Even with medical screening it's quick and easy online.
Or call us on 0345 90 80 161
Get quote
Click here if you are a non UK resident or have already travelled.

Related news

Cruise awards reveal top ocean liners 16 February 2017 09:11
Cruisers' favourite ships revealed 15 February 2016 09:09
Spa luxury in new Regent ship suite 16 January 2015 09:40