Five killed during safety drill on Thomson cruise ship

An investigation is taking place after five people were killed and three injured during a safety drill on a Thomson cruise ship docked in the Canary Islands.

The incident happened earlier today on the Thomson Majesty while it was docked in Santa Cruz on La Palma.

Thomson confirmed that all of those killed and injured were crew.

One of those injured has now been discharged from hospital and the other two are expected to be released from hospital imminently.

"Our thoughts are with the families of those involved," Thomson said in a statement.

"We are working closely with the ship owners and managers, Louis Cruises, to determine exactly what has happened and provide assistance to those affected by the incident. We are also working closely with all relevant authorities and will be co-operating fully with their investigations."

According to Spanish reports, the tragedy happened when a lifeboat fell from the vessel during an emergency drill.

Around 2,000 passengers are believed to have been on board the ship at the time, but it is not yet known if the cruise has been cancelled.

The Thomson Majesty is a 20-year-old ship owned by Cyprus-based Louis Cruises and leased to Thomson.

Spanish media said those killed were three Indonesians, a Filipino and a Ghanaian, while two Greek nationals were seriously injured and another Filipino slightly hurt.

It is not known what caused the boat to fall.

by Bev Fearis

Monday, February 11, 2013

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What about the families?

What a terrible consequence of a safety drill. What would have been toll if this had been an emergency at sea and the lifeboat was full? The ships crew have to maintain their competence in this, the equipment must be serviceable etc These are all issues for the investigation to pursue. Let's not forget the poor souls injured and those who have died probably have families who they have left at home whilst they work for 6 - 12months away to support. Let's hope that at least someone from Thomson and Louis Cruises have been in touch with bereavement support and financial help for their future.

By David Bennett, Friday, February 22, 2013