Weather Americas Ocean Cay, Bahamas · 5 February 2025
Cruise Ship Mooring Lines Fail in Strong Winds – Ocean Cay, Bahamas – 5 February 2025
Key facts
- Vessel
- MSC Seaside
- Deaths
- None reported
What happened
During mooring operations at MSC Cruises' private island Ocean Cay on 5 February 2025, strong winds caused several securing ropes on the cruise ship MSC Seaside to fail under load. The ship's forward section moved away from the pier while passengers remained ashore, though the stern stayed secured to the berth. The bridge team engaged bow thrusters to reposition the vessel against the quay, and passengers were subsequently returned to the ship. No injuries were reported, and assessments indicated no significant structural damage to the vessel or pier infrastructure.
Location and time
- Incident Date: 5 February 2025
- Location: Ocean Cay Private Island, Bahamas
Vessel involved
- MSC Seaside – cruise ship operating a Miami to Bahamas roundtrip itinerary
Injuries/Fatalities
- Injuries:
- No injuries reported
Response and resolution
- Passengers held on pier until situation stabilised
- Bridge team engaged bow thrusters to reposition vessel
- Gangway connections restored once vessel secured
- All passengers returned to ship safely
- Assessments confirmed no significant structural damage to ship or pier
Operational impact
MSC Seaside was operating a short Bahamas roundtrip itinerary from Miami scheduled from 2 February to 6 February 2025. The voyage was completed as planned, with the vessel arriving back in Miami the following day.
If you were on board
Cruise ticket terms often set short deadlines for notice and claims, and may name a court overseas. Get advice early.
General information only, not legal advice.