Reports coming out of Mexico are claiming a generator fire on the Ocean Star Pacific, operated by Ocean Star Cruises, forced the evacuation of 522 passengers and some crew by catamarans to Huatulco.

The generator fire was said to be “quickly controlled,” with no injuries being reported.

The vessel was sailing to Acapulco, from Huatulco, and is currently (2:00pm EST April 16) six miles off the cost of Huatulco, with reports indicating it will be towed to shore.

Ocean Star’s inaugural voyage sailed on April 11, with the fire occurring on the line’s second official revenue sailing.

The company is offering three-, four-, six- and seven-night itineraries on the Mexican Riviera.

The ship has published capacity for 1,050 passengers, was recently acquired from Louis Group, as reported first by Cruise Industry News, meaning occupancy on an early voyage is notably low.

Ship History

The ship originally launched from Finland for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line as the Nordic Prince in 1971 at 18,000 tons with capacity for 724 passengers.

Royal Caribbean sent her to be lengthened in Finland in 1980 after just under a decade of service.

As new tonnage arrived in the Royal Caribbean fleet, the Nordic Prince received the honor of being the first Royal Caribbean ship to be phased out.

Like the Song of Norway, she was sold to Sun Cruises as well, but one year earlier – 1995.

Sun Cruises renamed the vessel the Carousel and removed the signature Viking Crown Lounge, which was required by Royal Caribbean.

Sun Cruises sold the ship to Louis Cruises in 2004, who sold it to the Mexican start-up Ocean Star for a reported $23,375,000.