Norwegian cruise ship carrying 1,300 passengers suffers engine failure

A cruise ship off the west Norway coast has issued a mayday call in heavy winds, with 1,300 passengers set to be evacuated, local police said.

At least 100 passengers have so far been rescued, according to Norwegian media.

The Viking Sky sent out a distress signal after suffering engine problems, police in the county or More and Romsdal said.

Helicopters and rescue boats are at the scene in strong winds and heavy waves.

The waves, which were said to be ‘eight metres high’ are so strong rescue boats were forced to turn around.

Local news reported that it will take a long time to rescue all 1,300 passengers, because helicopters can only carry 10-15.

Five of the evacuated people have been taken to hospital, but their conditions are unknown.

The ship was reportedly drifting towards shore while fighting the waves in winds blowing at a speed of 38 knots, according to VG.

It has since been reported that the crew were able to restart one engine.

Rescue service spokesman Einar Knudsen told Reuters: ‘If we need to evacuate everyone, it will take several hours.’

The crew is hoping the functioning engine will help get the ship to shore.