Dozens Injured as HK Ferry Hits Breakwater

By The Maritime Executive 06-13-2014 10:08:00

A high-speed ferry from Hong Kong hit a breakwater as it was approaching Asia's gambling hub, Macau, on Friday (June 13), local media reported.

Footage from Hong Kong television ATV showed the ferry mounted on the breakwater after the accident.

The crash happened approximately 9:35 a.m., about an hour after the TurboJET Cacilhas departed Hong Kong. Shun Tak Holdings Ltd. operates the 24-hour ferry service.

The ferry was carrying 220 passengers and 13 crewmembers at that time, it reported. About 70 people suffered from mostly light injuries. Of those injured, only one was reportedly still in the hospital for treatment.

One passenger said the ship listed before stopping.

According to Bloomberg Businessweek, the Cacilhas is scheduled to have its annual inspection in July. The vessels operated by Shun Tak Holdings are propelled by waterjets powered by gas or diesel engines.

An investigation is underway, but local media said the accident took place during high tides and the breakwater was not visible at the hour of the crash.

All ferry sailings have resumed normal services.