Heavy seas see off Queen Mary 2 in NZ

Heavy seas see off Queen Mary 2 in NZ

Heavy swells caused by Cyclone Pam have prevented one of the world’s biggest cruise liners from visiting Wellington.

The Queen Mary 2 was due in Wellington on Wednesday morning after spending time in the Marlborough Sounds, but 8m swells at the entrance to the harbour meant it was too risky.

The vessel has a deep draft which doesn’t leave much margin for error, harbourmaster Mike Price told NZ Newswire.

The 345-metre long ship, which can carry more than 3000 passengers, was sailing on to Auckland via the west coast to avoid the rough seas created by Pam, he said.

About half a dozen ships were waiting for the swell to subside before they could enter or leave the harbour, Mr Price said.

The Interislander has cancelled the 10.45am ferry sailing from Picton, but it was unclear if this was because of the swells.

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