For the present, we conclude that the engine failure was directly caused by low oil pressure. The lubricating oil level of the tanks was within set limits, but relatively low, when the vessel started to cross Hustadvika. The tanks were provided with level alarms, however these had not been triggered at this time. The heavy seas in Hustadvika probably caused movements in the tanks so large that the supply to the lubricating oil pumps stopped. This triggered an alarm indicating a low level of lubrication oil, which in turn shortly thereafter caused an automatic shutdown of the engines.
I know of two couples on the ship. I have not spoken to them personally but they both said the crew handled the situation extremely well. One couple was taken off the ship by helicopter and the others stayed on until the ship docked. The couple who were air lifted off had a muster station that had water sloshing around! The passenger said they were evacuated by:1 - hysterical people first, 2 - injured, 3 - elderly people and then other passengers. They had air lifted over 400 off when the ship stabilized, an engine started and tow lines were hooked up to tow boats. The other 900 passengers and crew stayed on board until the ship safely docked.
The couple that were airlifted off were given dry footwear as soon as they reached land. A mall stayed open and they were taken there for anything they required. When the ship came into port they boarded and packed up their belongings.
Viking Cruise lines have offered fantastic compensation. They were all put into hotels while the cruise line worked on getting them to their home destination. All passengers were given a 100% refund of the cruise fare paid. They were in the final days of their cruise and had a wonderful trip up to the incident. They are also offered a "free" cruise! One couple in Vancouver received flowers the other day and a nice letter from the cruise line.
Viking River cruises have been around since 1997. The ocean cruise division has only been in operation for two years. I've done a Viking River cruise and really enjoyed it.
A first class company who treats their passengers well!
