Passengers aboard the Stena Spirit ferry remain stuck in Karlskrona, Sweden, after the ship experienced issues while docking on Wednesday.
Incident and Initial Response
The incident occurred on Wednesday when the Stena Spirit, traveling from Gdynia, was mooring in the port of Karlskrona. Strong winds and a broken rope caused the ship to shift position, requiring a tugboat’s assistance.
Stena Line Polska representative Agnieszka Nowakowska stated on Friday morning that they are still awaiting final clearance for the ship to depart the port. The company is offering passengers affected by cancellations or delays accommodation on the Stena Spirit and in local hotels.
Alternative Travel Arrangements
Stena Line is preparing alternative solutions, including bus transfers to Trelleborg, where passengers can connect to ferries to Poland. Freight customers are being offered the option to remain in port and await further transport or seek alternative routes.
Passenger Accounts of Conditions
One passenger told TVP Info that the situation is less stable than company representatives portray. They described poor conditions, delayed access to accommodation, and difficulties obtaining necessities like medication and food.
The passenger, Krzysztof Nowak, reported that information from Stena Line is inconsistent, and staff often retreat and call security or police when questioned.
Hull Inspection and Previous Operations
Swedish Stena Line spokesperson Johan Live informed PAP on Thursday that divers were still inspecting the hull on the same day. According to a witness quoted by local newspaper “BLT”, the Stena Spirit suddenly experienced steering problems and drifted towards another vessel.
Stena Line has operated the Gdynia-Karlskrona ferry route for over 30 years, utilizing three vessels, including the modern Stena Estelle and Stena Ebba E-Flexer class ferries.
