signalmankenneth
Verified User
I emailed this cruise line on this issue and got this response.
We’re aware of the allegations that Star Princess supposedly passed by a boat in distress that was carrying three Panamanian fishermen on March 10, 2012. At this time we cannot verify the facts as reported, and we are currently conducting an internal investigation on the matter.
We were very saddened to learn that two lives were lost aboard the boat, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
Princess Cruises is dedicated to the highest standards of seamanship wherever our ships sail, and we understand it is our duty to assist any vessel in distress. We have come to the aid of many people at sea, and we will continue to do so.
Sincerely,
Princess Cruises
Customer Relations Specialist
customerrelations@princesscruises.com
Got this follow-up email today on this issue!
Thank you for your email. Princess Cruises deeply regrets that two Panamanian men perished at sea after their boat became disabled in early March. Since we became aware of this incident, we have been investigating circumstances surrounding the claim that Star Princess failed to come to the aid of the disabled boat, after a crew member was alerted by passengers.
The preliminary results of our investigation have shown that there appeared to be a breakdown in communication in relaying the passenger’s concern. Neither Captain Perrin nor the officer of the watch were notified. Understandably, Captain Perrin is devastated that he is being accused of knowingly turning his back on people in distress. Had the Captain received this information, he would have had the opportunity to respond.
We all understand that it is our responsibility and also the law of the sea to provide assistance to any vessel in distress, and it is not an uncommon occurrence for our ships to be involved in a rescue at sea. In fact, we have done so over 30 times in the last ten years.
We deeply regret this incident and are continuing our investigation to fully understand the circumstances.
Sincerely,
Princess Cruises
Customer Relations Specialist
customerrelations@princesscruises.com