cruise ship in storm 2023

Carnival passengers recount ‘nightmare’ cruise as storm floods ship

Videos showed the carnival sunshine cabins and hallways flooding and ceilings leaking.

Matthew Branham and his fiancée, Madison Davis, were lying by a Carnival Sunshine pool on Friday aboard a cruise returning to Charleston, S.C., from the Bahamas when an announcement came over the loudspeaker. The captain was expecting rougher weather that evening, but there was nothing to worry about. So Branham and Davis didn’t worry.

As the day went on, “We noticed it started getting cooler in the afternoon — much, much cooler,” said Branham, 25, of Castlewood, Va. “And then it was like a switch was flipped, and it literally turned into a nightmare.”

En route back to Charleston Friday night into Saturday, the Carnival Sunshine navigated into a strong storm system that battered the southeast over the holiday weekend. Videos emerged on social media showing cabins and hallways flooding, shop floors littered with destroyed merchandise and leaking ceilings . Passenger Brad Morrell snapped a photo of an automated instrument map reporting a 69 knot, or 79 mph, wind.

#CarnivalSunshine : Due to return to Charleston, South Carolina this Saturday, May 27, 2023, has been delayed due to severe weather. The ship is currently off the South Carolina coast and holding position, unable to return to the port because of high winds & rough seas. #cruise 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/2B6HlAn2yD — ∼Marietta (@MariettaDaviz) May 28, 2023

Carnival said in a statement that the weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecast, but that its fleet operations center team, which relies on outside meteorology resources for itinerary planning, “coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location.”

“Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous,” the statement continued. “The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear.”

Strong Southeast storm slams Carolinas

Carnival said the captain made “several announcements about the weather and the delay it caused in returning to Charleston, asking guests to use extra precaution while walking around the ship.” Additionally, “some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made, but guests and crew were safe.”

The ship’s medical staff did help a “small number” of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance following the storm. Despite the significant damage and a delay in schedule, Carnival Sunshine embarked on its next five-day Bahama sailing on Saturday.

From their sea-view room, Branham and Davis watched as waves surged over their window and braced themselves as the 892-foot-long ship lurched in the storm.

“Waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster — even in the middle floor,” Branham said.

They were told to stay in their cabins. Meanwhile, Branham said, TVs were falling off walls, and glassware was sliding off shelves and shattering on the floor. “You could not stand up in your room,” he said. “You could be thrown from the bed.”

They packed up their belongings when their floor started to flood and took shelter in a main lobby area.

“All of the employees were sprinting downstairs with life vests,” Branham said. “There were little kids besides us screaming and crying and throwing fits.”

Throughout the storm, Branham wondered why there weren’t more announcements from Carnival staff. Besides the warning of rougher seas earlier Friday and one Saturday morning after they’d weathered the storm, Branham said they weren’t given any official updates on their situation. When he asked workers what was going on, they told him not to worry.

⁦⁦ @CarnivalCruise ⁩ #carnivalsunshine still 75mph winds at 9:25am. Sitting and spinning in the Atlantic. pic.twitter.com/NITCO2l9Ss — FlyersCaptain™®© (@flyerscaptain) May 29, 2023

“But you see rooms flooded, and you can pick up a handful of sand and you’re kind of like, ‘What in the world? Why is nobody telling us anything?’” Branham said.

Jim Walker, a maritime lawyer and cruise industry legal expert, says his firm has been contacted by some Carnival Sunshine passengers who were injured during the storm, including a man who says he was struck by a door and broke his foot. Others have asked him about the potential for a class-action lawsuit.

While Walker said passengers should make their complaints known to Carnival, he doesn’t believe filing a lawsuit would be an efficient next step. Instead, impacted passengers can ask Carnival for a refund or a credit for another cruise, although there’s no guarantee the cruise line will grant such requests.

Pete Peterson, owner of Storybook Cruises , which is affiliated with Cruise Planners, said cruise ships keep a close eye on weather developments and will adjust their itinerary depending on the severity of the storm.

“Cruise lines monitor the weather all the time. They’re not going to put their passengers in harm’s way,” said Peterson, who has been a cruise adviser for more than 20 years and has sailed on nearly 60 cruises. “Obviously, some cruise lines are better at doing this than others.”

In 2016, Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas returned to port after cruising into a “bomb cyclone,” which damaged the ship amid winds gusting to 100 mph. The ship sailed into the remnants of Hurricane Hermine seven months later, causing additional problems.

To ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers, a cruise ship can alter its course and circumvent the rough weather system. In stormy conditions, the crew can deploy the stabilizers, which will prevent the ship from rolling and bucking.

“You don’t experience the up and down,” Peterson said. “It’s not as rough a ride.”

Both approaches can add to a cruise line’s expenditures, Peterson said. Stabilizers slow the vessel, thereby consuming more fuel. Sailing around the storm can take longer than the original route and disrupt the company’s cruise schedule, leading to delays or cancellations. The cruise line may have to reimburse passengers or provide them with future credits because of the inconvenience.

“When they do something like that, it’s going to cost them money,” Peterson said.

Craig Setzer , a meteorologist and hurricane preparedness specialist, said that even with the hurricane-like conditions and flooding, “I would never be in doubt of the vessel’s integrity,” he said. “Cruise ships are structurally very, very sound and can survive a lot. They’re really rugged.”

Matthew Cappucci contributed to this report.

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'Devastated': Passengers speak out after Bahamas-bound cruise diverted to New England, Canada over weather

Passengers had the option to cancel for future credit, the cruise line said.

Passengers of a cruise who were expecting a sunny getaway in the Bahamas this week were instead sailed to a much colder climate due to severe weather .

The MSC Meraviglia was forced to sail from Brooklyn, New York, to ports in New England and Canada on Saturday instead of its original destination in the Bahamas "due to unseasonable and rapidly worsening weather that would have made it impossible to safely reach the southern Atlantic Ocean from New York City," the MSC cruise line said in a statement to ABC News.

The move came after heavy storms struck the East Coast and the Bahamas causing flooding, power outages and several deaths.

MORE: 3 dead, 600,000 without power after monster storm tears up the East Coast

"The only alternative would have been to take the more extreme step of canceling the cruise -- and thousands of people's vacations -- outright," MSC said.

"The complexities involved in obtaining last-minute berths for unplanned stops and provisioning the ship along its new route left sailing to Canada and New England as the only viable option," the cruise line added.

MORE: Northeast storm: Maine police searching for 2 missing people swept away in floodwaters

MSC also said it offered passengers a choice of sailing to the new destinations or canceling for future credit, "which allows them to put the full value paid for this cruise toward another at their convenience."

The MSC Meraviglia is slated to arrive in the Port of Saint John in Canada on Thursday, the port wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Speaking to "Good Morning America," Lakeya Allen, who said she arranged the trip with her best friend Val Montgomery as a joint family holiday to the Bahamas, said she was "devastated" by the divergence of the course.

"Good Morning America" airs at 7 a.m. ET on ABC.

"So this is some of my kids' Christmas gifts," she said. "[T]his was like, 'Hey, you guys, you got to go to [the] Bahamas.' We're from Chicago, so we wanted to change the weather. I never fathomed that we will be back in cold weather."

Allen and Montgomery said they have been planning for the trip for almost a year, since last February.

"When they first sent out that message, I wish they would have given us options right in that message and we could at least have a choice," Montgomery told ABC News. "We didn't have a choice at all."

Allen also said they were given such short notice about the decision to change course, saying, "It was beyond short. Yeah, it was unexpected."

As for the cruise, Montgomery said it's getting "a little depressing because you can imagine as we’re making the most of it, but most people are walking around in coats, gloves and hats."

The cruise ship can accommodate up to 5,624 passengers and 1,608 crew members, the cruise line says on its website . It was unclear how many passengers were aboard the rerouted Bahamas cruise.

Chris Gray Faust, executive editor of review site Cruise Critic, told ABC News this kind of scenario and decision to change the cruise's itinerary is "not necessarily out of the question," and that some other cruise lines were reportedly impacted by the inclement weather.

Faust said that cruise lines typically have a "contract of carriage" clause that doesn't guarantee the ports the ship will travel to and allows the cruise operator to change the itinerary for various issues, including weather.

"Generally weather in December is fairly stable in Florida and the Bahamas, but it has been rough last weekend in particular," she said.

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Terrifying videos show norwegian cruise ship rocked by massive waves ahead of power outage that knocked out navigation.

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A Norwegian cruise liner carrying hundreds of passengers weathered a “terrifying” storm before a rogue wave temporarily took out its power, stomach-churning footage showed.

Tour operator Thorsten Hansen shared a video of the foamy waves battering the hull of the MS Maud, which made headlines Thursday when its electricity failed mid-voyage.

“A few of my guests are not so happy. But most of them are very brave and find it very interesting,” he wrote on Facebook.

“We’re watching films in our room. Every time we move we nearly go flying,” one passenger commented under Hansen’s post.

Another clip shared on X showed the view of the terrifying swells from the glamorous windows of an on-board suit, which tilted precariously toward the water between each wave.

“No fun on the Maud just now,” the person behind the camera captioned the footage.

The vessel carrying 266 passengers and 131 crew suffered shattered windows on its bridge when it encountered a powerful storm in the North Sea late Thursday, Danish authorities said.

Everyone on board was marked safe, and the ship is being towed to Bremerhaven in Germany, officials with the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said.

The ship’s main engine is still functioning, so the vessel can be steered from the engine room.

One passenger, Elizabeth Lawrence, wrote on X that the storm was a “terrifying experience.”

I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened. It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone (2) — Elizabeth Lawrence (@eclairelaw) December 22, 2023

“I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened,” she said.

“It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone,” Lawrence explained.

Lawrence said her group took shelter between buffet tables to avoid “flying chairs and furniture.”

The MS Maud, which is run by the cruise company HX, a unit of Norway’s Hurtigruten Group, left Floroe in Norway on Thursday and was scheduled to arrive in Tilbury in Great Britain on Friday.

The ship was named after a famous polar ship from the 20th century, the cruise line’s website explained .

The MS Maud’s on-board technology makes her “exceptionally well-suited” to trips through Norway and the British Isles, the company boasted.

A trip on the Maud can cost up to $10,000, according to the website.

With Post wires

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WATCH: Cruise Passengers Share Terrifying Videos from 'Nightmare' Storm at Sea

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port safely on Saturday after being stuck in a storm between the Bahamas and Charleston, S.C. for 15 hours

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port nine hours later than planned after sailing through a terrifying storm on Friday night.

The ship was on its way to Charleston, S.C. from the Bahamas when it got caught in severe weather, including nearly 80 mph winds. Passengers on board shared details and footage of the chaos and destruction caused by the storm on social media. Thankfully, Carnival told PEOPLE in a statement provided below that "no one was seriously injured."

Crew Center, a cruise ship information site, posted a video on Twitter showing a flooded hallway, torn-off doors and other debris and destruction on board.

"The aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm," the post read. "The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed."

brad morrell/storyful

Passenger Daniel Taylor told Newsweek that the captain made an announcement around 4:45 p.m. saying that they would be experiencing a delay due to "adverse weather conditions," expressing that they "would do everything they could to minimize discomfort.

By dinner time, public decks had been closed off, and plates and cups were flying off the buffet areas, he recalled.

By the early hours of Saturday morning, he said, "We were no longer able to see where we were going, how fast we were going, what the wind speed was, or anything. We were blind to what was going on." Swells were hitting the ship "over and over," said Taylor, who also recalled seeing crew members wearing life vests.

At that point, the internet was also out, so those on board couldn't get any additional information or reach loved ones.

Matthew Branham, who was also on board, told The Washington Post , that "waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster — even in the middle floor."

TVs were falling off walls and glasses shattering. “You could not stand up in your room,” he said. “You could be thrown from the bed."

Another passenger, RJ Whited, wrote in a since-deleted Facebook post cited by Newsweek , "Our cruise ship last night was literally sideways and slung everything in our room breaking, people in the hallways throwing up and sleeping on the stairs."

Added Whited, "We also found out that they knew about the storm and instead of us staying back to ride it out a few hours they hit it head-on so we could make it back for the other cruise to be on time."

Finally, the ship made it back to Charleston around 7:30 a.m., though it couldn't immediately dock due to continuing rough weather.

At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, the ship was able to dock.

Summing up the "nightmare" experience, passenger Christa Seifert-Alicea told NBC News 4 : "What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget."

In a statement to PEOPLE on Wednesday, Carnival said: "Carnival Sunshine's return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. The weather's prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship's arrival and as a result, the next voyage's embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests." The statement claims that "the ship's crew followed our protocols for rough weather" noting, "thankfully, no one was seriously injured."

"The weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecasted," the statement continues. "Given the circumstances as they were, the ship's officers and our Fleet Operations Center team using real time meteorology data coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location. Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous. The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear." The cruise line's statement also said that the captain "made several announcements about the weather and the delay" but noted "some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made."

The Carnival Sunshine is already on its next voyage, the cruise line confirmed.

Anatomy Of A Near-Disaster: Examining The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident Of 2023

On May 27, 2023, the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship encountered a violent storm off the coast of North Carolina, sending shockwaves through the cruise industry and raising concerns about passenger safety.

While the ship eventually made it back to port safely, the incident served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the open sea and the importance of robust safety measures.

This article delves into the details of the Carnival Sunshine storm incident, providing a comprehensive analysis of the events that unfolded, the potential risks involved, and the lessons learned from this near-disaster.

From examining the storm’s intensity and the ship’s response to exploring the impact on passengers and the cruise industry, this in-depth exploration sheds light on the complexities of maritime safety and the importance of preparedness.

Whether you’re an avid cruiser seeking insights into safety protocols or simply intrigued by the intricacies of maritime operations, this guide serves as your one-stop resource for understanding the Carnival Sunshine storm incident and its broader implications.

The Storm’s Fury: Reconstructing the Events of May 27, 2023

The brewing storm: weather forecasts and initial warnings.

The Carnival Sunshine storm incident of 2023 was a harrowing experience for passengers and crew alike. It all began with the brewing storm that was forecasted days before the ship set sail. Weather experts had issued warnings about a developing tropical disturbance in the region.

However, the severity of the storm was initially underestimated, leading to a false sense of security among those onboard the ship.

As the ship embarked on its journey, the storm slowly gained strength. Passengers were informed of the worsening weather conditions, and the captain and crew closely monitored the situation. Despite the looming threat, the ship continued its course, hoping to navigate through the storm without incident.

Encountering the Storm’s Wrath: The Carnival Sunshine’s Ordeal

On May 27, 2023, the Carnival Sunshine found itself in the midst of a powerful storm. The ship was rocked by strong winds, towering waves, and torrential rain. Passengers and crew members were advised to stay in their cabins and secure any loose objects.

During this time, the ship faced significant challenges, battling against the relentless forces of nature. The crew worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone onboard. Despite the chaos and fear that engulfed the ship, acts of bravery and kindness were witnessed as passengers supported each other through this ordeal.

Navigating the Tempest: The Ship’s Response and Rescue Efforts

The Carnival Sunshine’s crew swiftly activated emergency protocols to ensure the safety of passengers. They communicated with onshore rescue teams, providing updates on the ship’s location and conditions. Efforts were made to stabilize the ship and minimize the impact of the storm.

Meanwhile, rescue vessels were dispatched to assist in the evacuation of passengers if necessary. The crew’s training and preparedness were put to the test as they worked diligently to keep everyone safe.

Their swift response and coordination were crucial in managing the situation and preventing further harm.

It is important to note that despite the challenging circumstances, the majority of passengers and crew members were able to safely disembark the Carnival Sunshine once the storm had passed. The incident served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of preparedness and quick action in such situations.

For more information on cruise ship safety protocols and emergency response procedures, you can visit https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/vsp/cruiseship/what_is_vsp_cruising.htm .

Assessing the Risks: Understanding the Potential Dangers of the Storm

When it comes to cruising, one cannot ignore the potential dangers that can arise from adverse weather conditions. The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident of 2023 serves as a reminder of the importance of assessing the risks associated with storms and understanding their potential dangers.

By examining the storm’s intensity and impact, the ship’s design and structural integrity, as well as the human factors and safety procedures, we can gain valuable insights into how to improve safety measures and better protect passengers in the future.

The Power of the Sea: Analyzing the Storm’s Intensity and Impact

The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident involved a powerful storm that put the ship and its passengers in a precarious situation. It is crucial to understand the intensity and impact of such storms to accurately assess the risks involved.

Meteorological data and expert analysis can provide valuable insights into the strength of the storm, including wind speeds, wave heights, and rainfall amounts. By studying these factors, cruise lines can better determine whether it is safe to set sail or make necessary adjustments to their routes to avoid potentially dangerous weather conditions.

In the case of the Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident, it is important to note that storms can be unpredictable and can escalate rapidly. While cruise ships are equipped with advanced weather monitoring systems, unexpected changes in weather patterns can still pose a significant risk.

Therefore, it is vital for cruise lines to have contingency plans in place to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew when faced with severe weather conditions.

Ship Design and Structural Integrity: Evaluating the Carnival Sunshine’s Resilience

The design and structural integrity of a cruise ship play a crucial role in determining its ability to withstand the forces of a storm. Cruise lines invest heavily in ensuring their vessels are built to withstand adverse weather conditions.

From reinforced hulls to stabilizers that counteract the motion of the ship, various measures are taken to enhance the ship’s stability and safety.

It is imperative for cruise lines to regularly assess and update their fleet to meet the latest safety standards. By conducting thorough inspections and implementing necessary upgrades, cruise ships can better withstand storms and minimize potential risks to passengers and crew.

The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continuously evaluating and improving ship design to enhance safety measures.

Human Factors and Safety Procedures: Assessing Passenger Response and Crew Actions

During the Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident, the response of both passengers and crew members played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of everyone on board. It is essential to assess how human factors and safety procedures come into play during such incidents.

Adequate training for crew members in emergency response protocols, as well as clear communication with passengers, are key factors in ensuring a safe and orderly evacuation, if necessary.

Passenger education and awareness are also crucial in promoting a culture of safety on board cruise ships. Informing passengers about safety measures, emergency procedures, and the importance of following instructions can help reduce panic and improve overall response during a crisis.

Additionally, implementing advanced technologies, such as improved communication systems and emergency evacuation drills, can further enhance passenger safety during storms.

The Aftermath: Passenger Experiences and Industry Repercussions

Passengers’ tales: first-hand accounts of the storm’s impact.

The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident of 2023 left a lasting impact on the passengers who were on board the ill-fated cruise ship. Many passengers have shared their harrowing experiences of the storm, recounting the terrifying moments when the ship was tossed around by powerful waves and buffeted by strong winds.

Some described feeling a sense of helplessness as they were confined to their cabins for hours on end, unsure of when the storm would subside.

Passengers reported scenes of chaos and confusion as the ship’s crew worked tirelessly to ensure their safety. Some praised the crew for their professionalism and quick thinking, while others expressed frustration at the lack of communication and organization during the crisis.

Despite the challenging circumstances, many passengers also shared stories of camaraderie and support among fellow travelers, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit even in the face of adversity.

These first-hand accounts serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of preparedness in the cruise industry. Cruise lines must continually evaluate and enhance their safety protocols to ensure the well-being of their passengers in the event of a similar incident in the future.

Industry Response: Cruise Lines’ Actions and Safety Reviews

In the wake of the Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident, cruise lines across the industry have taken proactive steps to address safety concerns and reassure passengers of their commitment to their well-being.

Carnival Cruise Line, in particular, undertook a comprehensive review of their emergency response procedures and made several improvements based on lessons learned from the incident.

Other major cruise lines followed suit, conducting safety audits and implementing new measures to enhance passenger safety during extreme weather conditions. These measures include the installation of advanced weather tracking systems, improved communication protocols, and enhanced training for crew members.

Cruise lines have also increased their collaboration with meteorological agencies to receive real-time weather updates and make informed decisions regarding itinerary changes or ship rerouting.

The industry’s response to the Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident demonstrates its dedication to learning from past mistakes and prioritizing passenger safety. Cruise lines are continually striving to ensure that incidents like this are minimized, if not completely avoided, in the future.

Regulatory Scrutiny: Assessing Compliance and Potential Changes

Following any major incident in the cruise industry, regulatory bodies conduct thorough investigations to assess compliance with safety regulations and identify areas for improvement. The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident prompted a comprehensive review of the cruise ship’s compliance with international safety standards and guidelines.

The investigation led to recommendations for industry-wide changes, including stricter guidelines for ship stability in adverse weather conditions and enhanced training for crew members on emergency response procedures.

Additionally, regulatory bodies have called for increased transparency and accountability from cruise lines regarding their safety protocols and contingency plans.

These regulatory measures aim to establish a more robust framework for ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members on board cruise ships. By holding cruise lines accountable and implementing necessary changes, regulatory bodies contribute to the overall improvement of safety standards in the industry.

Lessons Learned: Gleaning Valuable Insights from the Incident

The Carnival Sunshine Storm Incident of 2023 served as a wake-up call for the cruise industry, highlighting the importance of preparedness and safety measures. By examining the incident, valuable insights can be gained to prevent similar situations in the future. Here are some key lessons learned:

Enhancing Weather Monitoring and Forecasting Systems

One of the crucial aspects that emerged from the incident was the need for enhanced weather monitoring and forecasting systems. Cruise ships operate in unpredictable environments, and accurate and timely weather information is vital for ensuring passenger safety.

By investing in advanced technology and collaborating with meteorological agencies, cruise lines can better anticipate and navigate through adverse weather conditions. Additionally, developing onboard systems that provide real-time weather updates to both crew and passengers can greatly enhance situational awareness.

Improving Ship Design and Safety Features

The incident shed light on the importance of ship design and safety features in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events. Cruise ships should be built with reinforced structures and improved stability to withstand rough seas and high winds.

The installation of advanced propulsion systems and stabilizers can help maintain ship stability during adverse weather conditions. Moreover, the implementation of comprehensive safety measures, such as improved emergency lighting, backup power systems, and resilient communication channels, can ensure effective response and evacuation procedures in the event of a storm or any other emergency situation.

Strengthening Passenger Education and Emergency Preparedness

Passenger education and emergency preparedness play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on board. The incident highlighted the need for comprehensive safety drills and training programs for passengers, enabling them to respond effectively to emergencies.

Cruise lines should provide clear and concise instructions on emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, life jacket usage, and communication protocols. Additionally, enhancing communication channels to reach passengers quickly and efficiently during critical situations can help minimize panic and ensure a swift response.

By implementing these lessons learned, the cruise industry can significantly enhance the safety and preparedness of its ships, ultimately ensuring a more secure and enjoyable experience for passengers.

It is imperative for cruise lines to prioritize the well-being of their guests and constantly strive for innovation and improvement in all aspects of ship operations.

Moving Forward: Embracing Safety Culture and Continuous Improvement

Following the Carnival Sunshine storm incident of 2023, it has become imperative for the cruise industry to reevaluate and strengthen its approach to safety. Embracing a safety culture and continuous improvement is crucial in ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew members.

The Importance of Safety Culture: Embedding Safety as a Core Value

A safety culture goes beyond mere compliance with regulations; it involves instilling safety as a core value within an organization. This means that safety is prioritized at all levels and becomes an integral part of the company’s identity.

By embedding safety as a core value, cruise lines can create an environment where every employee feels responsible for safety and takes proactive measures to prevent accidents and incidents.

One way to reinforce safety culture is through comprehensive training programs that address potential risks and provide employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle emergencies. These programs can include simulated scenarios, hands-on training, and regular drills to ensure that staff members are well-prepared to respond effectively in any situation.

Furthermore, fostering open communication channels is vital for a strong safety culture. Employees should feel comfortable reporting safety concerns or near-miss incidents without fear of retribution. This allows for timely identification and resolution of potential hazards, preventing them from escalating into full-blown emergencies.

Continuous Improvement and Risk Mitigation: Fostering a Learning Organization

Continuous improvement is a key aspect of maintaining and enhancing safety standards in the cruise industry. By adopting a mindset of constant learning, organizations can identify areas for improvement and implement measures to mitigate risks.

Regular safety audits and inspections play a critical role in identifying potential weaknesses and areas of improvement within a cruise ship’s operation. These assessments should be carried out by independent third-party organizations to ensure objectivity and adherence to industry best practices.

The findings from these audits should be used as a basis for implementing corrective actions and enhancing safety protocols.

Another important aspect of continuous improvement is the analysis of near-miss incidents and accidents. By examining the root causes and underlying factors, cruise lines can identify trends and patterns that may indicate systemic issues.

This analysis can then inform the development and implementation of targeted interventions to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Regulator-Industry Collaboration: Ensuring Effective Oversight and Shared Responsibility

Effective oversight and regulation are essential in maintaining safety standards within the cruise industry. Regulators and industry stakeholders must work together to establish and enforce robust safety requirements.

Collaboration between regulators and cruise lines can take the form of regular meetings, sharing of information, and joint initiatives aimed at addressing safety concerns. By working together, they can identify emerging risks and develop proactive measures to mitigate them.

Transparency and accountability are also crucial in this collaboration. Cruise lines should be open and transparent about their safety practices, making information easily accessible to both regulators and the public.

This fosters trust and ensures that all parties are working towards a common goal of ensuring passenger and crew safety.

In conclusion, the Carnival Sunshine storm incident of 2023 serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in maritime operations. While the incident unfolded without serious injuries or loss of life, it underscored the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and a commitment to safety at all levels.

By examining the incident’s details, understanding the potential risks, and learning from the lessons it imparts, the cruise industry can continue to strive for excellence in safety practices, ensuring that passengers can embark on their voyages with confidence and peace of mind.

As maritime technology evolves and the demand for cruise experiences continues to grow, the industry must remain at the forefront of safety innovation, embracing new advancements and continuously refining existing protocols.

By doing so, the cruise industry can foster a culture of safety that prioritizes the well-being of passengers and crew, transforming every voyage into an adventure marked by both enjoyment and unwavering safety.

Jennifer Morris is an avid solo travel adventurer who founded Solo Traveller after many years of journeying on her own around the world. She has backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents over the past decade, striking up conversations with locals along railway platforms, learning to cook regional dishes in home kitchens, and absorbing a global perspective while volunteering with various community initiatives.

With a Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer is passionate about responsible and meaningful travel that fosters cultural exchange. Whether trekking through the Atlas Mountains, sailing to Komodo National Park, or taking an overnight train across Eastern Europe - she is always seeking her next epic destination.

When not globetrotting, Jennifer calls Vancouver, Canada home. There she enjoys kayaking local waters, curling up with books on faraway places, and gearing up for her next solo backpacking trip. As the founder of SoloTraveller, she hopes to motivate and inform fellow solo explorers from all walks of life to take the leap into their own adventures.

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Videos capture terrifying moments of Royal Caribbean cruise caught in bad weather

A spokesperson for royal caribbean said the turbulence did not last long and there were no serious injuries., by monica galarza and kaitlyn schwanemann • published june 23, 2023 • updated on june 26, 2023 at 7:27 am.

A sudden storm hit a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, sending passengers running for cover as furniture flew around the deck.

Passengers had just boarded the Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas docked in Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and were about to depart for the Bahamas when gusts of hurricane-like winds hit the ship.

Videos shared on social media show lounge chairs and tables flying across the deck.

One video captured the terrifying moment when a lounge chair narrowly misses a woman carrying a small child and hitting her stroller. Fortunately, the stroller was empty.

Get South Florida local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC South Florida newsletters.

Another video shows cruise guests running from the turbulent weather.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean said the storm did not last long and there were no serious injuries reported.

The cruise was able depart for the Bahamas and arrived at CocoCay on time, the spokesperson said.

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@cornettahh Another angle from the 6/16/23 squall that hit #independenceofthesea while docked in #PortCanaveral around 4pm. It hit so fast and was gone in a matter of minutes! No ship announcements were made before or after so people on the lower pool deck were hit completely without warning. 😳 #hurricaneseason #floridaweather #cruiseship #royalcaribbean #chaos #ocean #sea #squall ♬ original sound - Cora Cornett

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Passengers aboard Carnival Sunshine describe 'nightmare' sailing into Charleston in storm

by Sydaija Smalls

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Many people vacation during the holidays, but bad weather conditions can drastically change the experience.

That's what happened to some onboard Carnival Sunshine in Charleston this week.

Several people who cruised on the ship shared on Facebook photos and videos of "horrific" conditions they endured on what was supposed to be a peaceful holiday vacation.

For one couple, the start of their engagement and first-ever cruise was described as a nightmare.

RJ Whited’s new fiancé, Tracy, got very sick and they had to stay in their room at the start of the cruise.

Read More: Carnival Cruise Line: Passenger appears to have died from medical condition

After Tracy passed out three times and caught a fever, they were advised to quarantine.

She started feeling better but then the ship got caught in a storm on its way back to Charleston.

“It was shaking us so violently,” Whited said.

Carnival cruisers said they were confused after several hours of no communication from crew members.

Passenger Christa Seifert-alicea said they didn't receive communication for over 12 hours. To be in the middle of the ocean, in the middle of the night, with no information was the worst part, she said.

"What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget," she said.

Another passenger, Daniel Taylor, said the crew left them blindsided.

Read More: Homeport contract between Carnival, SC Ports ending in 2024

"They’re not reassuring us, not telling us what was going on, they could've updated us and let us know something," he said.

Water damage and broken glass was left in the hallways and rooms.

A representative from Carnival responded to a request for comment from News 4 with the following statement, in full:

"Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. Guests on board the ship were safe. Our medical staff helped a small number of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance. The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival on Sunday and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests."

He said Carnival Sunshine is now sailing on a five-day Bahamas cruise and will return to Charleston on Thursday.

Carnival Cruise ship catches fire after possible lightning strike

The cruise line said damage to the ship is "more than we first thought" and will require immediate repair to stabilize the funnel. cruises scheduled to depart from port canaveral on march 25th and march 29th have been canceled..

Heath Barnes was a passenger on the Carnival Freedom ship when the boat's exhaust funnel caught fire during a thunderstorm. The ship is back at Port Canaveral for repairs. 

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Carnival Freedom ship caught fire Saturday near the Bahamas after passengers reported a lightning strike on the boat during a thunderstorm .

Carnival Cruise Line said the crew reported a fire on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel around 3:15 p.m. Saturday. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, sailing to Freeport after being unable to dock at Princess Cay due to weather conditions. 

"Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire," Carnival Cruise Line said. "While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport on Sunday."

LIGHTNING FATALITIES WERE SECOND LOWEST ON RECORD IN 2023, SAFETY COUNCIL SAYS

Around the time of the fire, radar showed a storm cell over the area and a lot of lightning activity.

Radar at 3:15 p.m. on March 23 when a Carnival Cruise ship was possibly hit by lightning. 

(FOX Weather)

Multiple passenger videos show flames and dark smoke billowing from the exhaust funnel as rain continues to pour onto the deck.

Passenger Heath Barnes said the ship was supposed to dock at Princess Cay on Saturday about 9 a.m., but passengers were told that the boat would continue to Freeport due to strong winds . 

During the afternoon, the rain returned, and passengers reported hearing loud thunder and then seeing the smoke. Soon after, guests were told to remain in their cabins.

Smoke and flames coming from the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom cruise ship on Saturday, March 23, 2024. 

(@breezebreeze_ via Storyful)

"Why is our tail on fire?" someone can be heard saying in the video recorded by Barnes. "That's not good, y'all."

On Monday, Carnival Freedom returned to Port Canaveral , where guests disembarked.

The cruise line said damage to the ship is "more than we first thought" and will require immediate repair to stabilize the funnel. Cruises scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on March 25th and March 29th have been canceled. All guests on the canceled trips will receive a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit.

FOX Business reported that the same cruise ship caught on fire in 2022 after being struck by lightning. 

Carnival Freedom cruise ship on fire

Video shows smoke and flames coming from the Carnival Freedom exhaust funnel on Saturday after a possible lightning strike. (video credit: Credit: @breezebreeze_ via Storyful)

Another video recorded on Saturday by X user @breezebreeze showed the fire on the ship.

"Carnival Freedom on fire AGAIN!!" they wrote on X.

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U.S. travel alert: Do not travel to this Caribbean nation, popular spot for cruise ship stops

• Updated: Mar. 11, 2024, 11:28 p.m. |
• Published: Mar. 11, 2024, 8:39 a.m.

A demonstrator holds up a Haitian flag during protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Friday, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph) AP

• Leada Gore | [email protected]

The State Department is warning travelers not to go to the Caribbean nation of Haiti even as American military forces are being brought in to shore up security at the U.S. Embassy in Port-Au-Prince.

The Travel Advisory for Haiti remains at level four, meaning all travel to the country is discouraged. Other level 4 countries include Russia, Syria and Burkina Faso.

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous. We are aware that there are few or non-commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them,” the US Embassy said in a statement issued this week.

Travelers who are in Haiti are advised to avoid crowds and being outside after dark, keep a low profile and be aware of their surroundings.

Haiti is located on the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic sharing the island to the east. The Dominican Republic is under a level 2 advisory with visitors urged to exercise increased caution.

READ MORE: US issues travel warning for mega-popular spring break tourist spots

The U.S. military presence will protect the embassy and allow non-essential American personnel to leave the area, which has been taken over by violent street gangs, the AP reported.

A do-not-travel alert for Haiti was issued in July 2023 for what the State Department described as “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.” Later that month, the U.S. ordered all family members of U.S. government employees and non-emergency personnel to leave the country. American government personnel have been limited to only confined areas around the Embassy and are not allowed to walk in Port-au-Prince, use any public transportation, visit banks or ATMs, drive at night or travel between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Despite the security issues, which included a mass prison break last week, cruise ship lines continue to stop in the country.

Royal Caribbean ships continue to call on Labadee, the cruise company’s property located on a peninsula about six hours drive away from Port-au-Prince, CNN reported. The area is only available to ship guests and visitors do not leave the resort. No security issues have been reported at the resort.

The company said it is monitoring the situation in Haiti.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. Our global security teams are closely monitoring the situation in the area. At all times, we remind guests to remain aware of their surroundings while ashore and follow all State Department guidelines. Should any changes be required, guests will be notified directly,” a Royal Caribbean spokesperson told CNN.

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FinanceBuzz

16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: August 22, 2023

Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the top travel credit cards and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.

Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?

Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship.

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Pack a carry-on bag

Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.

Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action.

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Verify that travel documents are in order

You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.

These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.

Check out the schedule on the cruise app

Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.

While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out:

• Where you can find lunch
• What time the muster drill will be at
• How to access your cabin
• Whether any special events are planned for the evening

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Find your cabin

Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.

Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.

Unpack your carry-on

Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.

You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later.

Find out if the internet works

If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.

If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up.

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Set your phone to airplane mode

You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.

Dress for the day’s events

If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance.

You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.

Apply sunscreen

Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn.

Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time.

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Take anti-nausea medication

Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.

If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy.

Attend the mandatory muster drill

Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.

All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.

You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.

Explore your surroundings

Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.

While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.

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Consider choosing an e-muster

Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.

Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away.

Double-check reservations — or make them in the first place

You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.

Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots.

Find the best spot to enjoy embarking

There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.

Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it.

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Unpack the rest of your bags

You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.

The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

Bottom line

Follow this simple 16-step checklist to avoid wasting money and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.

You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.

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Cruise ship stranded in 2019 could have been "one of the worst disasters at sea," officials say

By Kerry Breen

March 20, 2024 / 9:30 AM EDT / CBS News

A cruise ship that lost power during a storm off the coast of Norway and nearly ran aground in 2019 avoided becoming "one of the worst disasters at sea in modern times," according to a new report looking into the blackout . 

The Viking Sky was carrying 1,374 passengers when it lost power and became stranded in a notoriously rough stretch of water in the Norwegian Sea. The ship came close to crashing into Norway's rocky coast, and hundreds of people were evacuated over the course of several hours. 

The blackout meant the ship could not move forward or be steered, according to the report from the Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority. The accident was caused by insufficient lubricating oil in all of the operating diesel generators' lubricating oil sump tanks, the agency said, which combined with rough waters meant the ship could not operate. 

The investigation found that one of the vessel's four diesel generators was "unavailable" when it left port, the agency said, meaning that the cruise ship was not in compliance with safety standards and should have never sailed. The design of the sump tank on the working generators was also "non-compliant with applicable regulations," the investigation found. 

The agency's investigation "identified operational, technical, and organisational safety issues that in different ways contributed to the blackout" and called for more than a dozen safety recommendations. 

Once at sea, the agency said one of the biggest problems was that the ship's crew had never practiced the protocol for how to recover from a full blackout without a standby generator. This meant that engineers "were not practised in managing" the situation.

"The situation was stressful, the control system was complex, and a specific sequence of actions was needed. Insufficient training likely contributed to why the blackout recovery was time consuming," the agency said. 

Several of the safety recommendations focused on ensuring that various shipyards, ship managers and other organizations that oversaw the Viking Sky review and strengthen processes to ensure that materials are compliant with safety regulations, and to ensure that no other vessels are sailing with faulty machinery. Other safety recommendations suggested that new technology be developed to better measure lubricating oil "to ensure safe operation" of large vessels, and that the ship management company and cruise line operator review their engine room alarm system to identify and implement potential improvements. 

• Cruise Ship

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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Ukraine says it has taken out another 2 warships in Russia's Black Sea fleet

• Ukraine claims to have struck two of Russia's landing ships in occupied Crimea.
• The strike also hit a Russian military comms centre and Black Sea fleet infrastructure.
• Russia's pride-and-joy Black Sea fleet is a major target for Ukrainian strikes.

Ukraine struck two of Russia's large landing ships in occupied Crimea in the late hours of March 23, Ukrainian Armed Forces confirmed on March 24.

The strike also hit a Russian military communications center and some Black Sea fleet infrastructure.

Footage shared on social media appeared to show a large blast in the city, sending a fireball and plume of black smoke into the air, and what appeared to be Russian air defenses intercepting incoming projectiles.

Sevastopol, multiple Ukrainian Storm Shadow cruise missile slam into a Russian target pic.twitter.com/D8emHWNn4z — OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) March 23, 2024

Business Insider has not been able to independently verify the Ukrainian claim, though open-source intelligence analysts have confirmed the hits on Sevastopol through local sources.

According to OSINTtechnical project, at least three Storm Shadow missiles were used to take out the Russian communication tower.

The ships Ukraine claims to have hit, the Yamal, with 98 crew members, and the Azov, with 87 crew members, belong to the 197th Landing Ships Brigade of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The are frequently used in the fleet's exercises and training, according to Ukrainska Pravda.

Related stories

In the spring of 2022, Krym.Realii - a Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty project - reported that the Azov and Yamal were under repair in one of Sevastopol's shipyards.

Aside from destroying a military communication center in Sevastopol, Ukraine also damaged big landing ships “Yamal” and “Azov”. Bullseye! #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/00dhUwXUgS — olexander scherba🇺🇦 (@olex_scherba) March 24, 2024

Following the strike, the commander of Ukraine's Air Force, Mykola Oleshchuk, thanked the pilots and sailors for their "successful combat work."

The Russian authorities did not report the attack. But the Russian-appointed head of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, wrote on Telegram that the evening attack on Sevastopol had been "the largest in recent times."

He claimed that 10 Ukrainian missiles had been shot down.

Houses in the city center had their windows smashed in, and a 65-year-old Sevastopol resident was killed from a missile shrapnel, he claimed.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Russia launched 57 missiles and drones in the attacks on Ukraine , Reuters said, some of which struck critical infrastructure in the western city of Lviv and targeted the capital Kyiv.

Ukraine described it as the largest aerial bombardment of its energy system since the war began.

Moscow said that the attacks were retaliation for recent strikes inside Russia.

Russia's Black Sea fleet is a major target for Ukraine

Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Russia's Black Sea fleet — often considered the pride and joy of Russia's navy.

Last month, Ukraine claimed it had sunk the Russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov off the coast of Crimea using its vaunted sea drones. Its sister ship, the Novocherkassk, was struck in the port of Feodosiya in December 2023.

One of the largest attacks on Russia's Black Sea fleet came in September last year when Ukraine struck several naval targets and port infrastructure. The attack caused a huge fire at a Sevastopol shipyard.

In the early months of the war, Ukraine sank Russia's flagship Black Sea missile cruiser , the Moskva.

Kyiv continues to insist that it plans to retake Crimea and all other occupied territories of Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

Watch: Video of Russian naval ship explosion shows a much-needed win for Ukraine

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