Costa Allegra Update: Tugs Reach Stricken Cruise Ship

Two tugs have joined the Costa Allegra and will help tow the broken down cruise ship to the Island of Mahe, Seychelles, the cruise ship owner, Costa Crociere, said today. The vessel remains without power after a fire broke out in the vessels engine room on Monday.

Costa Crociere said originally that the cruise ship was going to be towed to Desroches Island however it will now be towed to Mahe due to logistical issues.

The French-flagged fishing vessel F/V TrÃ©vignon reached the Costa Allegra sometime over night and was eventually joined by another merchant vessel.

Costa Crociere added that it is likely that the cruise ship passengers will be stranded on the vessel until at least Thursday when the vessel reaches Mahe. In the meantime helicopters will provide the cruise ship with a continuous supply of food and other comfort items including flashlights.

On board the Costa Allegra are 636 passengers of various nationalities and 413 crewmembers, including nine Italian Navy marines on board for security. Costa Croceire says that the family of the crew and passengers have been notified and the vessel remains stable. No injuries have been reported.