Marine pilots raise concerns over Royal Princess megaship

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – Southeast Alaska Sea Pilots are concerned that maneuvering one of the four megaships cruise lines is expected to bring to the state this season.

CoastAlaska reports that Norwegian Bliss and the sister ship are expected to visit the state, along with Royal Caribbean International's Ovation of the Seas and Princess Cruises & # 39; flagship, Royal Princess.

Southeast Alaska Pilots Association tested the limits of each of the four megaships in virtual reality. 19659004] The pilots say that "overall simulations for the royal princess presented serious challenges in the wind and current conditions common to" southeast Alaska.

Princess Cruises asked the report's findings, but says it will work closely with marine pilots to ensure safe handling of the vessels in Southeast Alaska.

The royal princess is scheduled to make her first visit to southeast Alaska on May 1[ads1]3.

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