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All 163 Filipino crew of stricken Viking Sky cruise ship safe

Authorities successfully brought the luxury cruise ship, Viking Sky, to port on Sunday after a harrowing ordeal that started when its engines malfunctioned during a storm off the coast of Norway.

All 1,300 passengers, including 163 Filipino crews, were safe.

To recall, Viking Sky, which was operated by Viking Ocean Cruise, had sent out a mayday signal as it had been drifting towards land on Saturday.

The stretch of water known as Hustadvika is known for its fierce weather and shallow waters are dotted with reefs. 

According to the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, waves were 6-8 metres high, with wind blowing at 24 metres per second.

Rescuers said that there were 1,300 people on board the ship, of which 915 are guests and 458 are crew. Most of the guests are British and Americans, who are mostly senior citizens.

At least 17 people were brought to the hospital.

The Philippine embassy in Oslo is already “in touch with” with ship owner Viking Cruises and the Norwegian Rescue Center.

A Philippine embassy official was told that ‘passengers have praised the efficiency and helpfulness of the ship’s Filipino crew in the evacuation.

Staff Report

The Filipino Times is the chronicler of stories for, of and by Filipinos all over the world, reaching more than 236 countries in readership. Any interesting story to share? Email us at [email protected]

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