The Empress: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The 'Empress' cruise ship, which set sail from the Port of Visakhapatnam on June 9, 2022, finally docked at the Port of Chennai on June 11 after navigating through a tumultuous series of events. Initially, Puducherry authorities barred the vessel from entering its port, leading to hours spent stranded in the waters. Allegations regarding onboard activities such as alcohol consumption and gambling were cited as reasons for the prohibition. Following this, the cruise attempted to make its way to the Port of Cuddalore, located near Puducherry, but was met with strong protests from local Tamil Nadu political groups. As a result, the 'Empress' was again denied entry. This controversial journey will not deter the cruise line, with multiple sailings from Visakhapatnam planned through September 2022. On June 13, the 'Empress' departed from Chennai, with its next destination set for Visakhapatnam, expected to arrive by June 15.

On June 10, 2022, the cruise ship 'Empress', which had embarked on its journey from Vizag on June 8, found itself denied entry into Pondicherry Port. The vessel was anchored midsea at 4 a.m. when authorities halted its progress. In response, the cruise management sought permission to dock at nearby Cuddalore, just a stone's throw from Pondicherry. Local political factions in Tamil Nadu have raised their voices against the entry of the ship, prompting stringent directives from Pondicherry's Lieutenant Governor, Tamilasai, to bar the ship's access to the port. The inclusion of on-board amenities such as casinos and gambling facilities, which are prohibited in Pondicherry, significantly contributed to the decision. Additionally, the ship's inventory included alcohol sourced from Andhra Pradesh, conflicting with local laws that restrict the sale of out-of-state alcohol. The cruise liner is currently awaiting clearance to divert to Cuddalore, placing its upcoming operations, with scheduled tours extending through September, in a precarious position.

On the night of December 13, 2019, the cruise liner 'Empress of the Seas' made a remarkable humanitarian effort by rescuing two Costa Rican fishermen stranded for nearly three weeks in the waters between Grand Cayman and Jamaica. The ship, which was not initially on this course, had diverted due to inclement weather conditions. The fishermen had embarked from Porto Limon, Costa Rica, on December 1, and found themselves adrift after falling asleep while their fishing nets soaked. Unfortunately, they ran out of fuel as they attempted to navigate back to shore. Thankfully, the quick actions of the crew aboard the 'Empress of the Seas' led to the fishermen receiving essential medical care while onboard, ensuring their safe return after their long ordeal at sea.