Clelia II looking at National Geographic Explorer in Drake Passage

I was on the Clelia II in the Drake Passage, returning to Ushuaia from Antarctica (Dec 2010). While a large wave hit the front of the boat, a piece of wood deck railing broke loose and flew threw one of the bridge windows. This allowed water into the bridge and flooded some of the electronic panels, affecting the communications, navigation instrumentation and communications with the engine room. The National Geographic Explorer ship came up next to us for a few minutes, sent over a satellite phone, and then took off. For the record: we were never without engine power. The captain wisely chose to slow us down, head into the waves, and wait out the store. The entire crew, expedition team, trip leaders and passengers were amazing throughout the ordeal. And yes, visiting Antarctica was worth it and I WILL go back again!

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Clelia
• Drake Passage
• National Geographic Explorer
• Clelia II
• Antarctica
• Antarctic
• Emergency

[520largo]

We went with a tour company who contracted for this ship, so we had no say in what vessel we cruised. With that said, the ship still did well throughout the voyage. It was a freak accident. White water can come over almost any bow...including yours. It was a fluke that the hand railing broke at that exact moment and came crashing through the bridge window...and thus started the chain of events. The crew were exceptional and I would gladly cruise with this crew and ship, ANYWHERE.

[bendiksen50]

The NatGeo Explorer is a former ship of the Norwegian coastal express, built in 1982, and then named "Midnatsol" ("Midnight sun"). It's nice to see it again! These ships are built for the rough weather they sail through along the Norwegian coast in wintertime.

This ship was changed for Antarctic cruises i 2008. I would feel safe onboard the NatGeo Explorer in all kinds of weather, like I enjoyed journeys when it sailed up here in Northern Norway.

[Gaboss23]

this ship is not celia 2

[freshicedcoke]

how much was it swaying

[kalleebner]

What the hell has the Ice-Class to do with that situation ?

[RocketRodder]

@520largo Very well said, I am glad to hear that you're not fuming!

[27bsimp]

the rules change have nothing to do with the relative ice-class.. there are 2 IMO regulation changes coming in July 2011:

1) vesels must carry enclosed life-boats

2) vessels can ONLY carry light MGO (marine gas-oil) fuel type below the Antarctic convergence. Ice-class is a very subjective topic, but not one in the IMO discussion at present.

[crissehamscher]

The fact is that the rules will change next year to only allow ships classified as Ice Class (2nd only to Icebreaker Class) to cross the Drake into Antarctica. The NatGeo Explorer is Ice Class, the Clelia is not. We just returned from Antarctica on the Explorer and she is a great ship, fully able to take these rough seas with an equally great captain to steer her through. If you go, forget the pretentiousness of a luxury liner meant for the Mediterrean and go with the experts.