High Winds Force Celebrity Edge to Break Dock in Juneau

A dramatic moment unfolded at the port of Juneau, Alaska, on Monday when strong wind gusts caused the cruise ship Celebrity Edge to break loose from its moorings. The unexpected squall, with winds reaching up to 60 mph, struck mid-afternoon while the vessel was docked. Footage captured by tourists on shore shows the large cruise ship drifting away into Gastineau Channel.

According to Royal Caribbean Group, parent company of Celebrity Cruises, the ship’s captain quickly regained control and maneuvered Celebrity Edge back to the dock. “Passengers and crew reboarded safely and resumed the scheduled itinerary,” the company confirmed.

No injuries were reported and the ship sustained no damage, nor did any nearby vessels. The U.S. Coast Guard said the Edge drifted northward toward Carnival Luminosa, which was preparing to depart. The two ships avoided contact thanks to timely action by both crews.

Lieutenant Matt Naylor, spokesperson for Coast Guard Sector Southeast Alaska, said the incident is under investigation. The Coast Guard has asked for additional eyewitness videos to aid in their review.

The event recalls a similar mishap in Sicily involving the Norwegian Epic, when a gangway accident led to a guest falling into the water. In that case, the passenger sustained minor injuries.

While the Juneau incident ended without harm, it highlights the challenges cruise lines face with sudden weather changes, especially in exposed northern ports. The Celebrity Edge continues its scheduled Alaska itinerary without further disruption.

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