Monday, 18 November 2024

Statement regarding HX vessel Fridtof Nansen - now returned to service

UPDATE: MS Fridtof Nansen returned to service. Remainder of season unaffected.

MS Fridhof Nansen (File image)

On November 16th, a contained technical issue occurred on our vessel, MS Fridtjof Nansen. The ship is continuing its planned journey to the disembarkation port, Ushuaia, and will arrive on November 18th. We can confirm that all passengers and crew are safe and accounted for.

We want to reassure everyone that the isolated incident has not affected the safety or integrity of the vessel. Our technicians are actively working to resolve the issue, and the ship is on track to return to Ushuaia tomorrow. The safety and well-being of our guests and crew remains our top priority, and we are in continuous communication with all guests on board, providing timely updates as we work through this situation.

For those due to board the next voyage, scheduled to depart on November 18th the voyage has sadly been cancelled, and our Guest Services team has been in touch with them directly via text, email, and our call centre to address any urgent concerns. We are doing everything possible to assist them in returning home or rebooking their travels.

We sincerely apologise for this unforeseen disruption. We understand the emotional impact this has, especially given that many of these trips are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We are committed to supporting our guests throughout this situation and are working tirelessly to resolve the issue and get everyone home or onto new journeys as quickly as possible.

We deeply appreciate the understanding and patience of our guests, both those currently onboard and those affected by the changes to their upcoming trips. We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the crew and our teams for their professionalism and dedication as they work together to resolve this matter.

 


On Background:

About the guests:

  • Our HX Guest Support and Flight Teams have been working through the weekend to arrange onward travel for both embarking and disembarking guests, including flights and accommodation.
  • Our teams are providing full support for all guests affected by this situation, including arranging flights, transfers, accommodation, and additional staff on the ground. We are also actively working on compensation offers for everyone impacted.

About the ship:

  • MS Fridtjof Nansen is a modern expedition vessel built for polar waters. It is part of Hurtigruten Expeditions' fleet, known for our commitment to safety, sustainability, and immersive exploration of some of the most remote environments on Earth.
  • The ship, one of two custom-built hybrid battery ships, joined the fleet in 2020 and is designed with cutting-edge technology to ensure safety and comfort in the most challenging conditions.
  • With an ice-strengthened hull (Polar Class 6), MS Fridtjof Nansen is fully equipped to operate in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The isolated incident has had no impact on the overall safety or structural integrity of the vessel.
  • The ship adheres to the highest international maritime safety standards, including those set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), and MARPOL (pollution control) regulations.
  • Our crew is highly trained in polar navigation, safety procedures, and emergency response, and acted swiftly in accordance with established protocols.

 
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