Video: Boston Harbor Cruise Experiences Mechanical Failure, Hits Moored Sailboats

Photo courtesy Odyssey Boston

A Boston Harbor cruise ship with more than 325 passengers on board struck six sailboats after experiencing mechanical failure, the Coast Guard reported on Thursday.

The incident occurred just after 11 a.m. this morning as the passenger vessel Odyssey was getting underway for a harbor cruise with 328 passengers onboard.

The Coast Guard said the Odyssey experienced mechanical failure off Rowe’s Wharf in Boston Harbor, causing it to strike six sailboats in a mooring field.

A video posted online shows the incident:

That’s not supposed to happen! A cruise vessel carrying about 300 students struck several sailboats in Boston Harbor https://t.co/xye88Q1JKg pic.twitter.com/G1z5TceAUg

— WCVB-TV Boston (@WCVB) June 21, 2018

Local media is reporting that most of those on board were students.

The Coast Guard launched a crew from Station Boston to verify safety of all persons involved and condition of vessels.

No injuries, significant damage or pollution have been reported.

“The Coast Guard, Massachusetts State Police, Massachusetts Environmental Police and Boston Fire Department immediately responded to ensure no one was hurt,” said Captain Claudia Gelzer, Sector Boston Captain of the Port. “We are investigating the cause to prevent future accidents.”

The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the cause of the failure.

Alcohol testing of the operator was completed on-site, the Coast Guard reported.

The Odyssey is one of four vessel operated by Odyssey Cruises, which is part of Entertainment Cruises. The vessel can accommodate up to 400 passengers. 

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