MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Clelia II sailing on her own is expected Friday in Ushuaia

MV Clelia II is carrying 88 passengers and a crew of 77 including the expedition staff

The expedition vessel MV Clelia II is now operating at normal speed during its northbound crossing of the Drake Passage, following heavy sea conditions Tuesday that resulted in a broken bridge window and some electrical malfunctions.

According to IAATO International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, the ship is in no danger, with weather conditions improving as the ship heads back to Ushuaia, Argentina. Clelia II is operated by New York-based Travel Dynamics International and owned by Helios Shipping of Piraeus, Greece.

Reports indicate that while Clelia II was encountering rough weather and sea conditions on the morning of December 7, a large wave hit the ship, breaking the starboard bridge window and dousing some electrical circuitry. This caused a temporary loss of communications and affected engine performance. Both engines remained operational and speed was reduced. There are no injuries to passengers, although one member of the crew sustained minor injuries.

The ship reports no damage to the hull or discharge of oil or any other liquids or fluids from the ship.

Another IAATO ship, the National Geographic Explorer, operated by Lindblad Expeditions, accompanied the Clelia II for much of the day and was able to provide valuable assistance in restoring Clelia II’s communications.

On board the MV Clelia II are 88 passengers and 77 crew, including the shipʼs expedition staff. 

Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers (MRCCs) in Chile and Argentina were notified shortly after the incident, with Chilean authorities in turn alerting the Chilean Naval Patrol Tug Lautaro.

Late in the day, Chilean authorities provided clearance for the National Geographic Explorer to resume speed, and for Clelia II to continue north to Ushuaia under its own power. Speed was gradually increased during Tuesday night as sea conditions improved, and the vessel is currently proceeding at a normal cruising rate. It is expected to pick up an Argentine channel pilot Thursday evening and arrive in Ushuaia during the early morning hours of Friday, December 10.

Other IAATO passenger vessels in the vicinity are also aware of the situation, and will be available to provide additional assistance, if the need arises.

A Lloyds’ surveyor is on his way to Ushuaia to inspect the ship on arrival. Travel Dynamics International expects to continue their Antarctic season with Clelia II following the inspection.

This isn't the first time Clelia II has encountered issues in Antarctica. In December 2009, the ship hit rocks while preparing a passenger landing at Petermann Island, Antarctic Peninsula. On that occasion, it suffered damage to a propeller and had to be returned to Ushuaia under escort and pulled from service for repairs.