A recent investigation revealed that a British passenger aboard a Saga cruise ship suffered a severe spine injury during a violent storm and subsequently passed away due to inadequate care while at sea. The passenger, identified as Trevor Gilks, aged 85, tragically died shortly after falling off a chair on the Saga Spirit of Discovery as the ship encountered rough seas off the UK coast in late 2023. The incident occurred when the vessel faced force 11 winds in the Bay of Biscay on November 4, resulting in over 100 passenger injuries.
Mr. Gilks, who was vacationing with his wife, a wheelchair user, was thrown from his chair when the cruise ship experienced significant rolling movements during the storm. Despite being promptly assisted back into his chair by a nurse and provided with a neck collar for support, Mr. Gilks was not placed on a spinal board, the standard protocol for suspected spinal injuries.
Subsequent examinations, including X-rays reviewed by an onshore radiologist, were inconclusive about any cervical spine damage. However, Mr. Gilks began experiencing tingling sensations in his limbs and eventually lost feeling in his legs, prompting concerns about paralysis. Despite the doctor’s recommendation to evacuate him for advanced care, the ship’s captain, citing risks associated with helicopter transfers in rough conditions, decided to keep Mr. Gilks on board until the ship reached Portsmouth.
Upon arrival at the hospital, Mr. Gilks was diagnosed with a complete cervical spine injury, leaving him permanently quadriplegic. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on November 8, becoming one of eight individuals requiring hospitalization upon the ship’s arrival in Portsmouth.
The Marine Accident Investigation Board report highlighted the captain’s decision to proceed through the Bay of Biscay despite adverse weather warnings and operational challenges. The report recommended implementing electronic stability measuring devices on cruise ships to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In response to the tragic event, Saga Cruises expressed remorse for the distress caused to Mr. Gilks’ family and emphasized their commitment to safety and adherence to industry guidelines. The company pledged to enhance policies and procedures in collaboration with authorities to address the report’s recommendations and improve overall safety measures.