NTSB Advisory
National Transportation Safety Board
Washington, DC 20594
March 23, 2006

NTSB SENDS INVESTIGATOR TO ASSIST IN CRUISE SHIP FIRE INVESTIGATION

Washington, D.C. - The National Transportation Safety Board has sent an investigator to Jamaica to assist in the investigation of today's fire on board the Bermuda registered cruise ship Star Princess. The United Kingdom's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) will lead the investigation.

"This is an important industry for the United States because every year millions of Americans enjoy their vacations on board cruise ships. We appreciate the opportunity to work closely with the MAIB in this investigation," said NTSB Acting Chairman Mark V. Rosenker.

The NTSB will participate in the investigation under the provisions of the International Maritime Organization's Code for Investigation of Marine Casualties and Incidents.

All information regarding the investigation will be released through the MAIB.

NTSB Contact: Terry Williams, (202) 314-6100