The Holland America Line cruise ship ms Zaandam has canceled the remainder of its Alaska cruise itinerary after experiencing propulsion problems that limited the vessel's operating speed.
The 1,432-passenger cruise ship made an unusual overnight stay in Juneau, Alaska, on Friday after the technical problem was identified. Zaandam had been scheduled to depart the port at 10 p.m., but remained docked while repair efforts continued.
According to a letter distributed to guests, the issue affects one of the ship's propulsion systems. Holland America emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew was not compromised, but the condition prevented the vessel from maintaining normal cruising speeds required to complete the planned itinerary.
"Because of this situation, we regret that we are unable to continue with the remainder of our planned Alaska destinations," the company told guests. "Exploring the region is often the highlight of the experience, and we are truly sorry for the disappointment this will cause."
After leaving the harbor area early Saturday morning to make room for arriving cruise ships, Zaandam remained near Juneau before returning later in the day to pick up passengers who had chosen to spend additional time ashore.
As a result of the propulsion issue, the ship canceled scheduled calls to Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Ketchikan and began its return voyage to Vancouver, British Columbia. Guests participating in Cruisetours that were scheduled to embark in Skagway were instead transported to Juneau to join the vessel.
To compensate affected passengers, Holland America is offering a 50 percent refund of the base cruise fare along with a future cruise credit equal to 50 percent of the base fare.
Zaandam departed Vancouver on June 3 and is expected to return to the Canadian port on its originally scheduled arrival date of Wednesday. As of Sunday morning, vessel tracking data showed the ship sailing southbound in open waters off Southeast Alaska.
Built in 2000, Zaandam is one of Holland America Line's R-class ships and accommodates more than 1,400 guests.
