Emergency Incident: Harbour Pilot Falls Overboard During Emerald Princess Arrival in Kauai
As the cruise ship Emerald Princess approached Nawiliwili Harbour off Kauai on February 10, 2026, a routine pilot transfer turned into an incident. The local pilot, attempting to board from a pilot boat amid challenging sea conditions featuring high swells and shifting winds, accidentally slipped from the rope ladder into the water, distancing himself from the ship.
A man overboard alert was promptly activated on the ship’s bridge, and the pilot boat crew quickly maneuvered to assist him, successfully recovering him within minutes. Observers noted that the pilot was returned to his vessel without injury.
Due to the hazardous surf conditions that had been previously warned about, the Emerald Princess, which boasts a gross tonnage of approximately 113,561 and can carry over 3,000 passengers, subsequently canceled its scheduled port visit to Kauai. The ship proceeded toward Maui for its next planned stop. Passengers reported that the vessel experienced a noticeable list due to the rough sea conditions both before and during the attempted pilot transfer.
In maritime operations, pilot boats must remain close to larger ships for transfers via rope ladder, a task that becomes increasingly difficult in adverse sea states because of the relative motion between the vessels. The incident reflects standard maritime protocol, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing weather and sea conditions during port approaches.
For further details on incidents involving Emerald Princess, visit CruiseMinus.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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