Passengers preparing to board a cruise ship in Southampton are experiencing significant disruptions due to a gas leak that has resulted in the closure of parts of the port. Around 100 individuals are stranded at the VOCO hotel in Southampton following the gas leak incident at Dock Gates 4 and 5, just before the scheduled departure of Cunard’s Queen Anne at 4pm.
The area surrounding the terminal, including West Quay Road and the Itchen Bridge, is now congested with heavy traffic. Among those affected are Susan Drecksler, 72, and her husband Lawrence, 77, who require assistance due to his Parkinson’s disease. Mrs. Drecksler expressed frustration at the situation, emphasizing the challenges they face in navigating the chaos.
ABP, the operator of Southampton Port, confirmed that the leak occurred near the Ocean Cruise Terminal. They are actively working to resolve the issue promptly and restore access to the port. Southampton City Council reported the evacuation of Dock Gates 4 and 5, with an ongoing inspection by an engineer to address the leak, leading to queues along Platform Road, Town Quay, and West Quay Road.
The Queen Anne, currently engaged in European voyages, had just returned from a journey to the Norwegian fjords and northern Europe. The vessel was set to depart at 4pm for an 18-night voyage to Greece, the Adriatic, and the Western Mediterranean.
The situation remains dynamic, and updates will be provided to affected customers and stakeholders as developments unfold.