The Polferries ferry Nova Star turned back to Gdańsk on Friday, November 21 after an engine failure, prompting emergency protocols and passenger assistance while regular voyages resume Monday.
Engine failure forces return to Gdańsk
The two‑hour voyage from Gdańsk to Nynäshamn was halted as Nova Star’s engine failed, leading crew to secure the vessel with tug assistance and extract 115 passengers.
Passenger handling and onboard hospitality
Passengers were kept informed throughout; the ferry crew and Polferries staff offered accommodations in cabins and free breakfast, allowed date changes or refunds, and kept them on board until the next day.
Service interruptions and planned resumption
Regular courses are slated to resume on Monday; Friday and Saturday 18:00 departures were cancelled, and maintenance required fixing a high‑pressure fuel feed component damaged during the voyage.
Public comparisons with Hewelius tragedy
Social media comments referenced the 1993 Hewelius disaster, with some humorously suggesting a repeat if a storm had occurred, echoing public memory of the tragic event.
