HAL Shortens Mexican Riviera Cruise for Pod Repairs

Following an incident in which Holland America Line’s Oosterdam sustained damage to one of its two azipod propulsion units on October 8, HAL has altered its current itinerary to Mexico in order to arrive in San Diego one day early to repair the units, the line said.

Damage to the portside azipod has resulted in a decreased cruising speed by about 20 percent. The starboard azipod is completely functional and at no time was the safety or security of the vessel in jeopardy, HAL said.

Due to the slower speed of the vessel, the Oosterdam cancelled its scheduled call in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and automatically credited all passengers with shore excursions booked. In addition, HAL said each guest will receive a $150 shipboard credit as well as a future travel discount of 25 percent of the cruise fare paid.