Ocean Explorer runs aground in Alpefjord within the National Park in East Greenland

   September 13, 2023 ,   Accidents

Aurora Expeditions' chartered ship Ocean Explorer/tracker has run aground in Alpefjord near Mestersvig/Camp Nyhavn within the National Park in East Greenland.

The incident was confirmed by Ole Hald, head of duty at the Greenland Police, who stated that they were alerted to the situation on Monday, September 11th, at ~03:10 p.m. by the Joint Arctic Command (Danish Defence's Level II authority).

MS Ocean Explorer had 206 passengers on board, and fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the grounding. The current plan is to assess whether the ship can be refloated using her own power when the tide rises.

Authorities, including the police and the Arctic Command, are closely monitoring the situation and considering the possibility of evacuating passengers if circumstances change. The Arctic Command has reported that HDMS Knud Rasmussen (Patrol Vessel, MMSI 220428000) is en route to assist the cruise ship. However, it is expected to take days rather than hours for the inspection vessel to reach the ship's position.

Initial reports from the Arctic Command indicate that the cruise ship did not sustain significant damage immediately upon grounding.

Reportedly, the Arctic Command contacted another cruise ship in the area and commanded it to remain nearby for assistance if needed.

According to CruiseMapper's satellite AIS data, the closest cruise ship was Silver Endeavour/tracker - off Ymer Island or just ~100 km/60 mi to the north.