The Spirit of Discovery cruise ship was hit by a freak wave while travelling back to the UK
A passenger aboard a cruise ship has been confirmed deceased following the vessel’s encounter with a severe storm while returning to the United Kingdom.

On November 4, 2023, the Spirit of Discovery cruise ship was navigating the Bay of Biscay, located to the west of France and north of Spain, when it was struck by a storm that produced extremely violent winds of force 11 and waves reaching 30 feet in height.

The storm severely impacted the ship, resulting in injuries to more than 100 passengers, with eight individuals requiring hospitalization upon the ship’s arrival in Portsmouth two days later. Unfortunately, one of these individuals later succumbed to their injuries.

The Spirit of Discovery ship was struck by a violent storm last November (Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

The death of the unnamed passenger has been confirmed in conjunction with an ongoing investigation by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), which is receiving assistance from the cruise ship’s parent company, Saga.

The interim report indicates that the cruiseliner experienced a loss of propulsion due to adverse weather conditions, resulting in the vessel swaying violently while the crew attempted to restore propulsion.
Furthermore, the report noted that the severe weather and related issues persisted from 12:20 PM GMT on November 4 until the following morning.

“The propulsion difficulties, extreme storm conditions, and vessel movements continued until the next morning when the Spirit of Discovery was able to resume its journey,” the interim report states.

“During this period over 100 passengers were injured. Eight of the seriously injured passengers were taken directly to hospital on arrival at Portsmouth, England, one of whom later died from their injuries.”

An interim report into the investigation has been released (Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

The Spirit of Discovery experienced significant damage both internally and externally, as evidenced by images shared by passengers on board, which depicted shattered glass, overturned tables, and personal belongings scattered across the floor.

Passengers provided firsthand accounts of the turmoil during those hours, with many recalling the necessity to “hold on for dear life” amidst the chaos.

In an interview with the BBC last year, 75-year-old Jan Bendall recounted her experience while in her cabin with her husband when the captain’s message instructed all passengers to “remain seated or lie down” via the speaker system.

“It was quite frightening,” she stated. “I do not typically scare easily… it was quite dramatic.

“We were fortunate—being quite able-bodied—but I believe some of the older individuals and those in their own cabins were quite anxious.”

The interim report indicated that the investigation is nearing completion, after which a comprehensive report regarding the incident will be made available for consultation with all involved parties.

Pictures taken by passengers show the damage caused by the storm (Richard Reynolds)

A representative from Saga has expressed condolences to the family of the passenger who passed away and confirmed that all individuals on board have been provided with a complete refund.

“We extend our heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathies to the family of our guest who tragically lost their life due to the storm in the Bay of Biscay last year. We are actively collaborating with the Marine Accident Investigation Branch to assist in their ongoing investigation,” the spokesperson stated.

Featured Image Credit: Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images