Cruise liner gears up for storm but party goes on
CREW aboard the MSC Sinfonia cruise liner have been testing their lifeboats and changed their itinerary as cyclone Dineo approaches Mozambique and South Africa’s east coast.
Despite this‚ passengers are partying up a storm.
Michael Joubert‚ 31‚ who is currently on board the cruise ship with his wife‚ Christa‚ said yesterday that the sea “was still fair‚ bumpy‚ but not extreme”.
But while they were meant to be anchored off Mozambique’s Portuguese Island yesterday‚ the approaching storm meant they had to move. This came as crew started testing life-saving equipment.
“I have never seen this before. The MSC crew started ‘testing’ all the life boats between Monday and Tuesday – I assume for extra precaution. They have closed off the deck areas to the lifeboats since it’s a bit windy now as well‚ but water’s still fair‚” he said.
Joubert said they were able to get off the ship at Portuguese Island on Tuesday‚ when the weather was very warm and the sea was flat.
The Cape Town-based independent business consultant added: “We were supposed to be anchored at the island today as well‚ but since the captain decided it would be safer to leave the area‚ they did so.
“It’s unbelievable how calm everyone is. We have not heard anyone complain so far‚ but the general attitude is that everyone has faith in MSC.
“People are still having a great time.”
Tropical storm Dineo is expected to escalate into an intense cyclone with lashing winds before the weekend.