Norwegian Star Drifts in Hudson River Due to Power Failure – 12 July 2025

On 12 July 2025, the Norwegian Star experienced a total power failure shortly after departing Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City. The vessel, carrying 2,348 passengers on a 14-night transatlantic voyage to Reykjavík, lost propulsion, lighting, air conditioning, and water services while drifting in the Hudson River during warm summer conditions. Tugboats intervened and towed the ship back to Pier 88, where U.S. Coast Guard inspections were completed and clearance granted for departure.

The Norwegian Star departed again on July 13 at approximately 00:30 a.m., allowing the vessel to maintain its revised itinerary with planned port calls in Halifax, Sydney (NS), Prince Edward Island, Nuuk, Paamiut, Ísafjörður, Akureyri, and Grundarfjörður before reaching Reykjavík on July 26.

The vessel lost propulsion minutes into its departure, drifting between the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and the New Jersey shoreline. Air conditioning and water supply were interrupted, causing discomfort in mid-80°F (27–29°C) heat. Multiple tugboats responded and successfully towed the Norwegian Star back to Manhattan's Pier 88. U.S. Coast Guard officials conducted inspections and granted clearance for the vessel to resume operations.

Passengers

• 2,348 onboard at the time of the power failure.

Crew

• Number not specified in source.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• All 2,348 passengers remained onboard; vessel was towed to port and no evacuation was required.

Multiple tugboats responded immediately and towed the Norwegian Star back to Manhattan's Pier 88. U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) officials conducted inspections of the vessel and granted clearance for resumption of operations. Norwegian Cruise Line provided updates and services to passengers throughout the incident to minimize disruption to guest experience.

The Norwegian Star departed on 13 July 2025 at approximately 00:30 a.m. following USCG clearance. The vessel is proceeding with its revised itinerary, maintaining planned port calls in Halifax, Sydney (NS), Prince Edward Island, Nuuk, Paamiut, Ísafjörður, Akureyri, and Grundarfjörður, with arrival in Reykjavík scheduled for July 26. The cause of the power failure remains unconfirmed, though early reports suggest it may involve electrical or propulsion infrastructure. The Norwegian Star has a documented history of propulsion issues, including multiple Azipod system failures and a 2022 legal settlement over technical defects.