On Wednesday, July 24, at 01:18 p.m., the Norwegian coastal cruiseferry Havila Polaris experienced an incident off Stranda coast, while en route to the Geirangerfjord.
All passengers and part of the crew have been safely disembarked ashore at Stranda.
While on a northbound route (Bergen-Kirkenes) into the Geirangerfjord, Havila Polaris reported significant overheating in the portside propulsion system.
Although there was no fire outbreak, the overheating activated cooling systems and foam spraying in the affected areas.
The ship, carrying 397 passengers and 68 crew members, docked at Stranda under her own power.
For safety, all passengers and 30 crew members were evacuated and assisted ashore. The evacuees gathered at the cultural center in Stranda, which is serving as a reception center.
No passenger injuries have been reported, though two crew members are being checked for suspected smoke inhalation by medical personnel on land.
Meanwhile, Havila Polaris has received temporary sailing permission from DNV (Det Norske Veritas) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority to return to Alesund, where she will dock at Storneskaia. Passengers and crew are reboarding, and departure from Stranda is expected.