Loss of propulsion in heavy weather experienced by the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery, leading to over 100 injuries and one fatality
Location: Bay of Biscay.
Accident Investigation Report 6/2026
Read our marine accident investigation report, which includes what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations:
Summary
Shortly after 1230 on 4 November 2023, the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery lost propulsion in heavy weather while crossing the Bay of Biscay. Over 100 passengers were injured during this period. Eight of the seriously injured passengers were taken directly to hospital on arrival into port and one of these passengers later died from his injuries.
Safety issues
- the vessel lost propulsion due to violent motion causing propeller exposure, overspeed and automatic shutdown
- the initial loss of control was exacerbated by unexpected parking of both propulsion pods at 90 degrees to the vessel’s heading
- the decision to cross the Bay of Biscay was not effectively challenged by the crew and operational teams ashore
- the lack of implementation of the mass casualty incident plan contributed to the medical team becoming overstretched
- the delay in identifying that a passenger had suffered a spinal injury led to him receiving suboptimal treatment.
Statement from the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents
Recommendations
Recommendations have been made to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to propose that international carriage requirements include electronic inclinometers, and to the vessel’s classification societies to improve the quality of instruction manuals.
The propulsion manufacturer has been recommended to issue a customer advice note to owners of vessels fitted with similar pods.
The Cruise Lines International Association has been recommended to increase the number of medical personnel with an Advanced Trauma Life Support qualification carried on passenger vessels and to update its policies on the securing of vessel furniture in heavy weather.
Related publications
NTSB/MAR-08/01: Crown Princess
MAIB report 14/2009: Pacific Sun
Photograph credit
Image courtesy of Lambros Kakes (MarineTraffic).