These reports describe significant environmental incidents reported to and tracked by the National Response Center. They reflect both new incidents and follow-up information describing actions taken for previously reported events. The NRC publishes Incident Summary Reports periodically upon receipt of documentary information from the Federal On-Scene Coordinator.
| Occurrence Date: | December 17, 2000 |
|---|---|
| Location: | 209 nautical miles ENE of Cape Charles, VA. |
| Source: | Cruise Ship Sea Breeze I |
| Material: | Unknown |
| Severity: | Unknown |
| Quantity Discharged: | Unknown |
| Quantity in Water: | Unknown |
| Body of Water Affected: | Atlantic Ocean |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO Hampton Roads |
On December 17, the cruise ship SEABREEZE I radioed the Coast Guard that they were taking on water in their engine room and that the vessel was foundering in 25-30ft seas with only one engine operational to maintain headway. Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City launched the ready C-130 aircraft and two HH-60 helicopters to hoist the crew. An additional C-130 and HH-60 were launched to assist when the recall crews arrived. USS SAIPAN was diverted from the USS George Washington Battle Group and proceeded north, at best speed, to provide a lilly pad platform for the helicopters. The first two Coast Guard helicopters on-scene hoisted all 34 crew members from the ship in 70 knot winds and 30 ft seas and delivered them safely to Naval Air Station Oceana. A few crewmembers were treated at a local hospital for symptoms of mild exposure and heat stress. On December 18, the cruise ship sank and it is unknown how much fuel oil and engine oil are on board the cruise ship. CASE CLOSED.