Wind Spirit accidents and incidents

01 June 2019Ship Collision / Allision

On June 1, 2019, while maneuvering for docking in Port Uturoa (Raiatea Island, French Polynesia), due to electric failure, at ~8 am the 134-m long 4-masted ship lost power and drifted. Being out of control, the cruise vessel first struck two moored sailing boats then collided/contacted with the quay and came to a halt. No injuries we reported.

Reportedly, the ship suffered a complete blackout (power was restored within 10-15 minutes). It remained berthed at Uturoa until June 10.

The accident occurred at the beginning of 7-day "Dreams of Tahiti cruise (itinerary May 30 - June 6) roundtrip from homeport Papeete (Tahiti Island) to Raiatea Island and Tahaa Island. The current and next-scheduled cruises were canceled. The next voyage (itinerary June 6-13) roundtrip from Papeete had planned visits to Raiatea Island (June 8-9 overnight) and Tahaa Island (June 9).

Note: Actually, this type of marine accident is called “allision” (striking a fixed object) as opposed to “collision” (striking another vessel).

25 January 2003Propulsion / Power Loss

On January 25, 2003, engine and diesel generator problems resulted in power loss, which affected the ship's propulsion system. The vessel drifted at sea for ~1 day. After partial repairs were made by the crew, the ship managed to get back to call port Road Town (Tortola Island, BVI) for repairs.