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Introduction
The river cruise vessel A-ROSA SENA, operated by A-ROSA Cruises, was involved in an allision with a road bridge near Amsterdam on March 25, 2026. The incident resulted in structural damage to the vessel, a minor crew injury, and the evacuation of more than 200 passengers after a subsequent loss of power.
Details of the Incident
Collision Event:
- The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. local time as the vessel transited from the IJ toward the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal.
- While approaching the Amsterdamsebrug, the ship struck the underside of the bridge.
- Reports indicate the vessel’s wheelhouse remained in an elevated position at the time of impact.
- The collision caused significant damage to the wheelhouse structure.
Subsequent Vessel Movement:
- After the initial impact, the vessel continued forward briefly.
- The radar mast at the stern was bent, and the ship made contact with the canal wall before coming to a stop.
- Passengers reported a strong jolt at the moment of impact.
Injuries and Emergency Response:
- The helmsman sustained minor injuries and received medical attention.
- No passenger injuries were reported.
- Emergency services, including police and ambulance crews, responded to the scene.
Evacuation:
- Several hours after the incident, the vessel lost electrical power, including onboard lighting.
- Authorities ordered the evacuation of more than 200 passengers.
- Passengers were escorted ashore and transported by bus toward Cologne.
Operational Impact:
- The vessel was unable to continue its voyage due to damage and was expected to be towed back to Amsterdam.
- The canal was partially closed to vessel traffic while the bridge underwent inspection.
- The bridge was later reopened to road traffic after safety assessments were completed.
Voyage Context:
- The 2022-built, 135-metre vessel had departed Amsterdam earlier that day.
- The itinerary included a route via Utrecht to Cologne, with onward plans to Hamburg.