Cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam is seen at the dock of Venice Cruise Terminal (Picture: Getty)
Two crew members on a luxury cruise ship died during an ‘explosion’ while in the Bahamas.
They were part of the staff on board a 2,100-capacity ship owned by Holland America.
It had sailed from Florida last week for a seven-night trip taking in the Caribbean.
The unidentified crew members died on Friday while the Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.
Florida maritime lawyer Jim Walker said he had been sent a photo of the aftermath of the incident by other crew, who told him a steam compensator exploded while the men were working nearby.
The victims were trapped and scalded to death when steam was released into the room, he said.
Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said.Crew members were being offered counseling.
‘All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,’ the statement said.
‘The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.’
The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation.
The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.
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