AE Expeditions’ Ocean Explorer became stranded in Alpefjord on Tuesday (12 September) in the Northeast Greenland National Park on the other side of the vast Arctic island.
According to Danish authorities, Ocean Explorer remained stuck late on Tuesday (12 September) as the tide “did not provide the needed help to sail on”.
The nearest rescue vessel is reported to be some 1,200 nautical miles away from it and is unlikely to be able to reach the ship until Friday morning (15 September), although AE said in a statement it had reached out to other vessels in the vicinity should their support needed.
“Arctic Command is still in contact with relevant ships nearby that could have the opportunity to help free the cruise ship,” said Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command late on Tuesday (12 September).
“There are still no reports that human life or the environment are in acute danger, and the Arctic Command is following the situation closely.”
In a statement provided to TTG, AE said: The MV Ocean Explorer ran aground during its voyage, in Alpefjord, Greenland on Tuesday. All passengers, the expedition team and crew onboard are safe and well. Importantly, there is no immediate danger to themselves, the vessel, or the surrounding environment.
"We are actively engaged in efforts to free the MV Ocean Explorer, from its grounding. Our foremost commitment is to ensure the vessel’s recovery without compromising safety. We have also secured the support of other vessels in the vicinity should their assistance become necessary.
"As we continue to gather more information and progress in our efforts, we will provide further updates."
