The US Coast Guard is investigating the cause of Sunday’s accident
involving a Japanese cruise ship that rammed into a US Naval fuel pier at the inner Apra Harbor.
Navy officials said no one was injured but according to a source damage cost is initially estimated at $3 million.
According to a press release from the Port Authority of Guam, the cruise vessel Nippon Maru ran into the wharf around 9:14 p.m.
“Initial assessment indicated the lower portion of the stern on the starboard side of the vessel was punctured resulting in a gap measuring approximately 5 feet by 7 feet,” the Port Authority said. “Although damage to the southwest corner of the pier was evident, the Port Authority of Guam will defer to the U.S. Navy with regards to the extent.”
The 546 ft. vessel the 546 ft. vessel, which originated from Yokohama, Japan, was carrying 524 passengers with a crew of 224. It collided with Delta Pier upon departure to Saipan, the Port Authority said.
The Nippon Maru returned to the Port and is currently docked at F4 pier. A source said the passengers were flown back to Japan.
"The accident is unfortunate but we are thankful that the passengers and crew members were not injured." Port General Manager Joanne Brown said.
No other details about the accident were available as of press time.
Photos by the Pacific Island Times staff