High Seas vs. Overseas Setup Has Similarities

Unlikely cockpit comparison found in the waters off Argentina.

Friday, June 14, 2024 at 09:18 AM ET

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The Norwegian Cruise Line bridge was almost like simply entering a larger version of a Boeing 777 cockpit. [Courtesy: Les Abend]

Key Takeaways:

A cruise to the Falkland Islands was canceled due to forecast bad weather, leading to protests from passengers, particularly Argentines on a memorial trip.
The captain publicly explained that the diversion was a necessary safety decision to avoid high winds, difficult tender operations, potential port congestion, and significant delays.
The author, a retired airline pilot, received a bridge tour and discussed command decisions and the similarities between ship and airline operations with the young, experienced Captain Gentile.

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Aware that only priority communications were broadcast directly through the stateroom speakers, my wife and I snapped to attention. A sullen, authoritative voice began an announcement.

We were told that our last port of call in the Falkland Islands would be canceled because of weather as per the captain’s decision. The new course would proceed directly back to our departure/arrival port of Buenos Aires, Argentina, which would give us two additional days at sea for a consecutive total of four.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.