Spirit of Discovery report published 11.3.2026 | Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs Loss of propulsion in heavy weather experienced by a passenger vessel while crossing the Bay of Biscay, leading to over 100 injuries and one fatality. Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the loss of propulsion in heavy weather experienced by the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery on 4 November 2023 while crossing the Bay of Biscay, leading to over 100 injuries and one fatality. Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Rob Loder, said: While cruising remains safe and accidents rare, Spirit of Discovery’s violent motion in heavy weather caused injury to over 100 passengers and, very sadly, one passenger lost their life as a result of injuries sustained. A complex sequence of events led to this accident and we have identified a number of clear lessons around vessel safety, crew decision-making and medical response. I am encouraged by the swift action taken by the vessel’s owner, manager and manufacturers, but I urge the cruise industry to learn the lessons from this tragic accident. The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/spirit-of-discovery-report-published