Mooring lines on Celebrity Equinox snapped during embarkation in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 20, causing the ship to drift away from the pier amid strong winds. The incident led to a temporary halt in boarding after the gangway fell into the water.
According to passenger accounts, forward mooring lines snapped while the ship was docked, allowing the bow to swing outward from the pier. As the ship shifted position, it struck a refueling vessel alongside. Passenger photos shared on social media appear to show a large scratch on the ship’s hull, though no significant structural damage has been reported.
Reddit users sailing groups described the scene, reporting that the gangway slipped off the pier and was left hanging against the ship, partially submerged. Boarding was immediately suspended as a safety precaution, with passengers inside the terminal instructed to wait while the situation was assessed.
Guests already onboard said they heard multiple announcements over the public address system before feeling the ship move sideways along the dock. Tugboats were later dispatched to help stabilize and reposition the vessel.
In an announcement to guests, the ship’s captain apologized for the delay and confirmed that several mooring lines had failed due to weather conditions. He stated that embarkation would resume once the ship was fully secured and a replacement gangway was safely installed.
One passenger posted on the ship’s Facebook group:
“Captain has just announced apologies for delay as some mooring ropes broke away. Boarding is about to recommence and he will make an announcement later regarding a revised departure time. I’m by the embarkation door and at the moment there still isn’t a gang plank up to it.”
No injuries were reported among passengers, crew, or port workers. Boarding reportedly resumed within a few hours, although guests experienced long lines and continued delays throughout the terminal.
Celebrity Equinox is sailing a 14-day round-trip Patagonia itinerary departing Buenos Aires on December 20, 2025, and returning on January 3, 2026. The ship is expected to remain overnight in Buenos Aires before departing for Montevideo, Uruguay, on December 21.
