Two Adora Mediterranea voyages cancelled following fire on board

The incident took place at around 7:30 a.m. Beijing time on August 14 when the 2,680-passenger vessel was alongside in Jeju, South Korea. 

According to South Korean media, the Jeju Coast Guard received a report of smoke rising from the starboard side of the ship, with the fire originating in the engine room. Three crew members were treated for smoke inhalation, reports claim. 

Undergoing inspection and maintenance 

Adora Cruises said all passengers and crew on board were safe and that it immediately activated emergency response procedures, conducting checks and repairs. The cruise line then deployed a team to Jeju to develop a detailed action plan for on board and ashore. 

The vessel was deemed seaworthy and safe for operation by the relevant authorities – including the classification society and port state authorities – on the evening of August 15 when it subsequently set sail. 

Adora Mediterranea, which was recently refurbished, arrived at its homeport of Tianjin on August 17, skipping Fukuoka in Japan. 

Results of preliminary inspection 

A preliminary inspection showed the air-conditioning malfunction was caused by a faulty compressor. It will be replaced, at the same time as the inspection and maintenance of the ship’s A/C system. A spokesperson for the cruise line told Seatrade Cruise News, ‘We highly pay attention to the safety and security of our vessels, prioritising the safety and health of our passengers and crew members. 

‘We strictly adhere to relevant maritime and safety regulations, possess a professional team with extensive experience in international cruise maritime operations, and strictly follow the emergency response plans to take actions correspondingly.’ 

Compensation

Two five night voyages – departing on August 17 and August 22 – were cancelled. The affected customers have been offered compensation: to rebook a future departure or receive a full refund.