The MSC Victorine, a 2023-built, Liberian-flagged vessel, was berthed at the container terminal when the 99,526 gt Mein Schiff 3 collided with its stern at 5.30pm on Sunday evening, October 25.
The crash shortly after the cruise ship departed the Columbuskaje terminal with tug assistance. Strong winds from storm Manja were affecting Germany’s North Sea coast at the time.
According to German media, the collision tore open a 10-metre section of the MSC vessel’s hull above the waterline, with damage also reported to containers and deck structures. Bremen authorities confirmed there had been no water ingress or underwater damage.
Tugs also Damaged
The impact also damaged lifeboats and launching equipment aboard Mein Schiff 3, and two assisting tugs were reportedly damaged during the manoeuvre.
Bremen police said the cruise ship had struck two containerships, although TUI Cruises said that only one vessel was involved. The smaller MSC Anne F was also berthed nearby, but its involvement in the incident remains unclear.
The MSC Victorine, which had been scheduled to proceed to Hamburg, remained in Bremerhaven following the collision.
Cruise Liner Damage Unclear
The cruise ship, carrying 2,428 passengers and 922 crew, returned to the Columbuskaje terminal with tug assistance for damage inspections. No injuries were reported.
Mein Schiff 3 was due to start a 20-night Canary Islands and Morocco cruise, but TUI Cruises is still to confirm if the sailing can proceed.