DATE
31 JULY 2008

Pacific Sun being monitored by maritime authorities

Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) and the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) are monitoring the status of the cruise liner Pacific Sun, which is currently holding position about 300 nautical miles (540km) north east of New Zealand.

The vessel’s crew reported that 42 passengers have received medical attention after the vessel was hit by the severe weather conditions and suffered a sudden heavy roll around 8pm last night. The vessel, carrying 1732 passengers and 671 crew, was en route to Auckland following an eight day cruise in the South Pacific.

RCCNZ is in communication with the vessel and has requested regular updates as to its status. The vessel has not reported that it is in distress.

A MNZ Maritime Safety Inspector will visit the vessel to check on her when she arrives in port, which is scheduled for tomorrow, depending on the weather conditions.

ENDS

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