Reviews & Ratings for the Vesteralen

The ferry 'Vesterålen' has been cleared to resume its voyages as of the evening of January 8, following a series of successful trials conducted in collaboration with representatives from Veritas. At 10:30 p.m., the vessel departed Bergen, embarking on its northbound journey with approximately 100 passengers onboard. The ship is en route to Ålesund, where it is scheduled to undergo cosmetic repairs to the bow before continuing its travels further north.

On January 8, 2013, at approximately 2:20 PM, the ferry 'Vesterålen' faced a critical situation when it lost engine power and collided with the terminal in Bergen. The impact was significant, leading to the destruction of the gangway and causing extensive damage to the structure. Witnesses reported that the ferry approached the terminal at an alarming speed after its propulsion system failed to engage in reverse, slamming into both the quay and a glass footbridge. The force of the impact was so intense that the entire terminal shook for several seconds, prompting some bystanders to mistakenly believe an earthquake had occurred. As a result of the incident, the bow of the ferry sustained a substantial breach, measuring one meter in width. Additionally, approximately 3,000 liters of hydraulic fluid leaked into the surrounding waters from the damaged gangway. In response, the local fire department deployed oil booms to contain the spill and mitigate environmental impacts. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the 84 passengers and 41 crew members on board. At the time of the accident, the visibility was severely limited due to thick fog, with only a few meters of sight. The 'Vesterålen' gradually backed away from the terminal after the collision and was eventually moved to a nearby berth. For further details, visuals, and updates on this incident, please refer to the following Norwegian news sites: [Bergens Tidende](http://www.bt.no/nyheter/lokalt/Hurtigruten-traff-kai-med-et-smell-2823577.html), [Bergensavisen](http://www.ba.no/nyheter/article6431479.ece), [TV2](http://www.tv2.no/nyheter/innenriks/hurtigruten-krasjet-i-kaien-i-bergen-3960343.html), and [Dagbladet](http://www.dagbladet.no/2013/01/08/nyheter/innenriks/batulykke/bergen/25141954/).

On the evening of September 4, 2012, the ferry 'Vesterålen' was en route to Tromsø when it received an urgent distress call from the Rescue Coordination Centre of Northern Norway. Two fishermen had found themselves in peril after their 25-foot fishing vessel began taking on water in the rough conditions of the Lyngen Fjord. As the situation escalated, the fishermen abandoned their sinking boat and managed to secure themselves in a rubber dinghy, drifting amidst the turbulent seas. Fortunately, the 'Vesterålen' responded quickly, locating and safely rescuing both individuals, who were reported to be in good health. Additionally, the lifeboat 'Ulabrand' and the coastguard vessel 'Farm' were also deployed to assist in the operation, ensuring the fishermen received the help they needed. This incident highlights the importance of maritime safety and the readiness of rescue services in challenging conditions.