Seventy-nine passengers were evacuated from the Freedom ferry after the vessel suffered a mechanical failure while attempting to berth in Nantucket Harbor on Tuesday, July 14th. The ferry, operated by Freedom Cruise Line, was completing its scheduled service between Harwich Port and Nantucket when the incident occurred.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the ferry entered Nantucket Harbor safely but was unable to complete its normal docking manoeuvre. Initial indications suggest that the vessel experienced a failure in its propulsion control system, possibly involving a broken shift cable between the bridge and the engines. As a result, the crew was reportedly unable to shift the propulsion system out of reverse after engaging it during the berthing operation.
The malfunction caused the port aft quarter of the vessel to become lodged beneath Old North Wharf rather than alongside its usual berth at Straight Wharf. As the tide continued to rise during the passenger disembarkation, increasing pressure between the hull and the wharf made it more difficult to free the vessel.
The U.S. Coast Guard coordinated the response with the Nantucket Fire Department and the Nantucket Harbormaster's Office to ensure the safe evacuation of all passengers. The ferry was subsequently released from its position through the combined effects of changing wind and tidal conditions. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Coast Guard officials stated that the precise cause of the mechanical failure will be determined by the vessel's owner and operator during the subsequent investigation. Representatives of Freedom Cruise Line had not issued a public statement immediately following the incident, with company personnel reported to be onboard the vessel while assessments continued.