On October 25, 2026, around 5:30 p.m., the TUI Cruises vessel Mein Schiff 3, built in 2014, collided with two container ships during its departure maneuver at the port of Bremerhaven, Germany. The incident occurred while the cruise ship was assisted by tugboats in strong winds, as it prepared to set sail for a cruise to the Canary Islands.
Damage to Vessels and Immediate Consequences
Mein Schiff 3 sustained significant damage to multiple lifeboats, their davits, hull components, and exterior structures. One of the container ships suffered a several-meter-long gash above the waterline on its port side and deformation of its container guides, while the second
container ship incurred less extensive damage. None of the vessels took on water and there were no injuries onboard any of the three ships.
Weather and Maneuver Conditions
The collision was caused by a gust of wind pushing Mein Schiff 3 toward the container ships during its departure maneuver under adverse weather conditions with strong winds. Tugboat assistance was in use during the maneuver. The German Maritime Police have launched an investigation into the accident.
Cancellation of Scheduled Cruise and Passenger Impact
Scheduled to depart on October 25, 2026, Mein Schiff 3’s 20-day cruise to the Canary Islands was cancelled by TUI Cruises due to the damage sustained and safety concerns
following initial technical inspections. Passengers affected by the cancellation are being informed and assisted by the cruise company.
Official Response and Repair Status
Mein Schiff 3 returned to the Bremerhaven dock for inspection after the collision. Repairs require shipyard facilities and cannot be carried out quickly in port. A departure ban has been imposed on all three affected vessels. TUI Cruises apologized for the inconvenience and has not announced a repair schedule or return-to-service date. The investigation and damage evaluation are ongoing.
