BPS Confirm Death of Cruise Ship Crew Member

July 20, 2016

[Updating: Police confirm that during the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship’s safety and training drills, a lifeboat broke from its tethering and fell into the water. Four male crew members were onboard the lifeboat and were injured during the fall, and a 41 year old Filipino man died as a result of his injuries.]

An incident has occurred in Dockyard this afternoon [July 20] which the police said apparently involves a cruise ship, and emergency personnel are currently on scene.

The screenshots below, which capture some aspects of the response to the incident, are from the Dockyard webcam, and you can watch the emergency personnel responding via their webcam on their website.

Details surrounding the incident are unclear, however the police are expected to provide more information later today and we will update as able.

Update 1.22pm: Police Media Manager Dwayne Caines confirmed that an incident took place in Dockyard involving the Norwegian Breakaway and said he will provide more information shortly.

Update 1.57pm: Unofficial reports indicate the incident may have involved a lifeboat, and 3/4 people may have been injured. We are awaiting formal police information.

Update 2.15pm: Unofficial reports indicate that a smaller boat fell off the cruise ship and four people were injured, with all four taken to the hospital. Photos & video added below.

Update 3.01pm: We have asked a number of official entities for a statement, and hope to update with official information as able.

Update 3.26pm: NCL said, “On July 20 while Norwegian Breakaway was alongside in Bermuda, an incident occurred involving the ship’s rescue boat during a routine drill, affecting four crew members.

“The ship’s medical team provided immediate care onboard the vessel and the crew members were transported to the local hospital for further medical treatment. The company is providing full support and care to the crew members involved and is working closely with the relevant authorities to investigate the incident.

“The ship is expected to depart Bermuda as scheduled.”

Update 4.52pm: The police have confirmed the death of a 41-year-old crew member.

A police spokesperson said, “At 11:59am today first responders attended King’s Wharf in Dockyard to an incident onboard the cruise ship Norwegian Breakaway.

“During conduct of the ship’s weekly safety and training drills, a lifeboat broke from its tethering and fell into the water. Four male crew members were onboard the lifeboat and were injured during the fall.

“The crew were conveyed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment. The Bermuda Police Service is very sad to report that one crew member died as a result of his injuries.

“The 41 year old Filipino man will not be further identified until after next of kin have been informed. The other three crew members are being treated for their injuries.

“The Government’s Health and Safety Officer has been informed, and an enquiry has commenced into the circumstances of this incident.”

Update 5.09pm: NCL has also confirmed that one crew member passed away, saying they are “profoundly saddened by this loss and we share our deepest sympathies with the crew member’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

“The company is providing full support and care to those involved and is working closely with the Government of Bermuda and relevant authorities to investigate the incident. The ship is expected to depart Bermuda as scheduled,” NCL added.

Update 5.31pm: Acting Minister of Tourism, Transport and Municipalities Dr. Grant Gibbons said, “Enquiries continue into today’s accident involving the Norwegian Breakaway during a routine drill on board the ship.

“The Government remains in communication with NCL management with regard to the incident. The Department of Maritime Administration in their capacity as port state inspectors, and the Department of Marine and Ports Services will work closely with the cruise liner to assist as necessary.

“The Ministry is saddened by this unfortunate incident and extends its condolences to the family of the deceased, as well as the broader NCL family.”