Deadly wave hits Marco Polo

A “freak” or “rogue” wave struck the cruise ship Marco Polo on Feb. 14 as it headed through the English Channel toward London. One passenger died, another was injured and airlifted ashore for medical assistance and 14 other passengers suffered minor injuries. 

The minor damage to the Waldorf Restaurant was repaired, and British authorities cleared the ship to depart on its next scheduled cruise on Feb. 16.

“Rogue” waves usually form during severe storms and can be as high as an 8-story building. A few have struck cruise ships in the past, including the Louis Majesty while she was sailing in the Mediterranean in February 2013. Two passengers were killed as a result of plate-glass windows being shattered.