SEA DIAMOND Captain blames strong currents for sinking
Cruise ship's master speaks to Greek TV and says they did all they could and blames strong currents


The Greek captain of the SEA DIAMOND which sank on Friday 6th April at 7am has spoken to Greek television, denying responsibility for the incident.

Instead he blamed strong sea currents for the disaster.

Speaking to Greece's NET television he said that the ship was on her proper course when suddenly he felt the ship veer to the right. He gave the command to go to port but said that the ship did not respond in time and they struck the reef.

He also said that he and some of his crew took their lives in their hands as they searched for passengers in their cabins as the ship took on a 20 degree list, saying he realised that control of the ship was now impossible as it had taken on water and was already sinking.

Indicating they had acted promptly and had to the best of their ability ensured the passengers of their safety he said that his crew informed him all passengers had been evacuated safely.

The search still continues however for two French nationals, a father and his daughter who, it would appear, did not escape from their cabin as it flooded with water. The man's wife and son were reported to have fled the cabin but they did not know what had happened to the other half of their family as events had happened so quickly.

For other reports see:
Captain charged with negligence
Sinking of SEA DIAMOND
Grounding of SEA DIAMOND