Casino cruises halted after ship’s safety violations
A Florida based casino cruise ship has been temporarily shut down by the US Coast Guard following an anonymous tip which led to the discovery of several "safety deficiencies."
The safety concerns related to onboard fire safety and life saving equipment, including the deployment of life boats.
The Victory II casino cruise ship, which is based in Mayport, Jacksonville has been ordered to rectify the safety issues before it can take to the water again.
"In response to the tip, some of our inspectors from our Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville did an inspection just to ensure the safety and well-being of the passengers and crew" said Coast Guard public affairs officer Anthony Soto.
"Some of the safety deficiencies were deficiencies that could be a risk," Soto said.
Inspectors have given Victory II vessel owners an unspecified timeframe to meet safety standards but the company says it plans to resume sailings on Friday subject to another Coast Guard inspection.
The problem was discovered just before the busy Memorial Day holiday weekend.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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