Skipper falls asleep! Watch till the end. #yacht #crash #ferry

Introduction
On July 9, 2023, a startling incident occurred in the picturesque Lysefjord, Norway, involving the ferry MF Skanevik. This video, captured by a passenger, shows the ferry drifting uncontrollably into the rocky cliffs of Kvernafjellet. The root cause of this accident was the skipper falling asleep at the helm. The footage offers a real-time, unedited look at the moments leading up to and immediately following the crash.

Scene 1: Calm Before the Incident (0-5 seconds)
The video begins with a serene view of the ferry MF Skanevik cruising through the tranquil waters of Lysefjord. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with towering cliffs and lush greenery reflecting off the clear fjord waters. Passengers can be seen casually enjoying the scenic beauty, oblivious to the impending danger. The ferry appears to be operating normally, maintaining a steady course as it navigates the narrow waterway.

Scene 2: Approaching Danger (5-10 seconds)
As the ferry continues its journey, the camera captures the vessel veering slightly off its intended path. The shift is subtle at first, but it becomes increasingly apparent that the ferry is drifting towards the rocky shoreline of Kvernafjellet. Passengers start to notice the unusual movement, and a sense of unease begins to spread. The once-peaceful atmosphere on deck turns tense as people realize that something is amiss.

Scene 3: Realization and Panic (10-15 seconds)
The situation quickly escalates as the ferry gets dangerously close to the cliffs. The camera shakes slightly, indicating the growing concern among the passengers. Voices in the background rise in alarm, with some individuals pointing towards the approaching rocks. The realization that the skipper is unresponsive or asleep begins to dawn on the passengers, adding to the chaos. The sense of impending disaster is palpable, and the once serene voyage has turned into a scene of panic.

Scene 4: Impact (15-20 seconds)
The MF Skanevik collides with the rocky cliffs of Kvernafjellet. The impact is captured vividly on camera, with the sound of metal grinding against rock echoing through the fjord. The ferry shudders from the collision, and passengers are jolted by the sudden stop. Some are thrown off balance, grabbing onto railings and each other for support. The camera captures the raw emotion and shock of the moment, as the reality of the crash sets in.

Scene 5: Aftermath (20-22.4 seconds)
In the final moments of the video, the immediate aftermath of the crash is visible. Passengers are seen trying to assess the situation, checking for injuries, and looking for directions from the crew. The camera pans to the damaged side of the ferry, showing the extent of the collision with the rocky cliffs. Despite the chaos, there is a sense of relief that the worst is over. The ferry, though damaged, is still afloat, and the focus shifts to ensuring everyone's safety.

Conclusion
This video serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in maritime operations. The MF Skanevik incident, caused by the skipper falling asleep, highlights the potential dangers of human error in navigation. The footage, while distressing, also showcases the resilience and quick response of the passengers and crew in the face of an unexpected disaster. ​