Propulsion System Overheating on Havila Polaris: Incident on 24 July 2024

On 24 July 2024, the expedition cruise vessel Havila Polaris, operated by Havila Voyages, experienced significant overheating in its portside propulsion system while navigating off the coast of Stranda, Norway. The incident occurred at 1:18 p.m. local time during a northbound Bergen-Kirkenes itinerary and necessitated a precautionary disembarkation at Geirangerfjord/Stranda Port, though no passenger injuries were reported.

The vessel's automatic cooling system activated and released foam into the affected areas. Following inspection and temporary sailing permission from Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority (Sjøfartsdirektoratet), Havila Polaris proceeded under its own power to Ålesund for further assessment and repairs.

The portside propulsion system began overheating while the vessel was en route to Geirangerfjord Cruise Port. The automatic cooling system responded as designed, releasing foam into the affected machinery spaces. Despite the malfunction, the ship maintained propulsion capability and safely reached Geirangerfjord/Stranda Port without further incident. All 397 passengers and 30 of the 68 crew members disembarked and were accommodated at the port's cultural and reception center pending inspection clearance.

Passengers

• 397 onboard at the time of the incident; all disembarked at Geirangerfjord/Stranda Port.

Crew

• 68 total crew onboard; 30 disembarked with passengers for accommodation at the port reception center.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• 2 crew members treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Rescued

• All 397 passengers and 30 crew members safely disembarked and accommodated at the port.

The crew's prompt response to the propulsion system malfunction ensured safe navigation to port. Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority (Sjøfartsdirektoratet) conducted inspections and issued temporary sailing permission. Following clearance, Havila Polaris proceeded to Ålesund for comprehensive assessment and repairs of the affected propulsion system.

The vessel has been diverted to Ålesund for further technical assessment and repairs. The incident caused disruption to the scheduled itinerary; the operator is managing passenger accommodation and rebooking arrangements.