Earthquake casts uncertainty on cruise calls at Vanuatu’s Port VilaEarthquake casts uncertainty on cruise calls at Vanuatu’s Port Vila

An earthquake of magnitude 7.4 struck Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila Tuesday, causing widespread damage.

There are reports that at least one person is dead and that a casualty triage has been set up in the Port Vila Central Hospital.

Damaged buildings

Images emerging from the city show collapsed buildings and a landslide at the wharf.

The building that houses the US, UK, French and New Zealand embassies and High Commissions has been damaged.

Cruise schedule

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas was scheduled to arrive at Port Vila Wednesday.

P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Encounter is due December 21 and Pacific Adventure, December 22, with Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Luminosa planned to arrive December 23.

Port road impacted

There was no immediate response from Royal Caribbean, but a spokesperson for Carnival Corp. & plc said the company is liaising with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and with its local agents in Vila to assess the damage.

The spokesperson said it is understood the road to and from the port has been impacted.

‘We are keeping our guests informed of the situation and any potential impact on scheduled visits by P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line over the next week,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu, particularly those in Port Vila, during this challenging time.’

Authorities cancelled an initial tsunami warning.