Two crew members on a luxury cruise ship died during an ‘explosion’ while in the Bahamas.
They were part of the staff on board a 2,100-capacity ship owned by Holland America.
It had sailed from Florida last week for a seven-night trip taking in the Caribbean.
The unidentified crew members died on Friday while the Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.
Florida maritime lawyer Jim Walker said he had been sent photos of the aftermath of the incident by other crew, who told him a steam compensator exploded while the men were working nearby.
The victims were trapped and scalded to death when steam was released into the room, he said.
Travel blogger Laine Doss, who was on board when the news was announced to passengers, wrote on her website: ‘At 3pm, when the Captain asked for our attention, I was convinced it was a weather announcement.
‘Instead, he announced that two crew members were killed in an engine room accident. I was working on my computer at the Ocean Bar, a lovely venue with panoramic views. Suddenly, the convivial chatter and clink of glasses turned somber as we heard the captain’s voice break as he announced the news. One woman started crying. The rest of us lifted our glasses in tribute.’
She said she had been ashore at the time of the incident, but another guest she spoke to said ‘they witnessed the ship release a plume of white steam earlier that day, but nothing else seemed awry’.
Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said.Crew members were being offered counselling.
‘All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,’ the statement said.
‘The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.’
The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation.
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