Norwegian authorities confirm tragic accident involving Faroese vessel Naddoddur off coast of Norway

Norwegian authorities have confirmed that the incident involving the Faroese vessel Naddoddur, which capsized off the coast of Norway, was a tragic accident. In a statement, the police indicated that the situation is deemed a lamentable misfortune, and no one can be held accountable for the loss of life. The sailing was a private expedition initiated by the crew themselves.

Investigators are focusing on a primary hypothesis suggesting that a 4.6-meter wave caused the Naddoddur to capsize. According to reports from Norwegian media, statements from the five survivors provided key insights into the events leading up to the incident.

The initial distress calls were sent automatically. Authorities noted that weather conditions during the voyage were variable, and the first two distress signals were transmitted without the crew realizing they were in danger. When rescuers first arrived, the crew believed they were being searched for someone else and signaled that everything was fine.

However, weather conditions worsened more rapidly than anticipated, with significant waves causing the vessel to take on water. The crew had reduced the size of the sail but was overwhelmed when a large wave crashed over the boat, leading to its capsizing.

All six individuals aboard went overboard, but one person was held beneath the vessel. Attempts to resurrect her were unsuccessful, and she was later confirmed deceased. The five survivors were able to climb into a rescue boat, and a helicopter subsequently arrived to assist. The incident took place shortly after 7 PM on a Tuesday evening near Måløy. Naddoddur, a replica of a Viking ship measuring 10 meters long with two masts, was constructed following Faroese boat design.