CMV endures Vasco da Gama drama

A PRECAUTIONARY two-hour power outage aboard Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ (CMV) Vasco da Gama off the coast of Adelaide last Fri escalated into a major media storm, with mainstream reports variously describing the incident as “leaving hundreds of passengers stranded” as well as repeating claims the vessel “appeared to be listing”.

Despite the best efforts of the CMV team to highlight the reality of the situation, the ABC, News Limited and talkback radio breathlessly reported on the issues, citing stories from cruisers on board including one man who was caught in the shower when the power went out, and another who was forced to miss a doctor’s appointment because of the late arrival into port.

CMV was transparent in providing updates, confirming that officers initiated a controlled blackout to protect systems on board from damage, after an alarm light on the engine control room’s instrument panel.

As per standard maritime safety practice, local authorities were also informed, while guests were updated via on-board announcements.

Power was fully restored after precautionary checks identified no causes for concern.

The vessel resumed sailing towards Adelaide and arrived about two-and-a-half-hours late.

CMV Australia National Sales Manager Darren Chigwidden assured the line’s trade partners that the delay was due to the company putting safety first.

“No changes have been made to future itineraries... we look forward to a fantastic season of cruising for all of our guests.”