Hundreds stranded after ‘harmful growth’ found on Viking ship

Viking Orion was reportedly denied permission to dock in Adelaide on Monday (2 January) after authorities found "biofoul" – a collection of microorganisms, plants, algae or small animals – attached to the side of the vessel. 

Speaking to the BBC, the Australian fisheries department said the ship’s hull must be cleaned before it can enter Australia. 

"Professional divers were engaged directly by the vessel line/agent to clean the hull while at anchor outside Australian waters," it added.

In a statement, Viking reportedly said a "limited amount of standard marine growth" was being cleared from the ship’s hull, which caused the ship to "miss several stops on this itinerary".

"Viking is working directly with guests on compensation for the impact to their voyage," it added.