On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video showed a cruise ship slamming into enormous 40-ft waves, with passengers falling into walls during the voyage.
Massive waves slam into cruise ship, sending passengers flying
A viral video captured the terrifying moment a cruise ship battled 40-ft waves in the Drake Passage, leaving viewers shocked by the dangers of mother nature.
The footage showed passengers aboard a cruise ship faced terrifying 40ft waves while crossing the notorious Drake Passage.
The rough waters, known for their extreme conditions, tested both the vessel and its passengers.
Lesley Ann Murphy, a travel blogger on Quark Expeditions’ Ocean Explorer, captured dramatic footage of the chaos.
Her video showed massive waves towering over the ship and crashing against its large windows.
Passengers struggle to stay on their feet as ship sways
Murphy estimated that some waves reached up to 40 feet.
Her Instagram video showed passengers gathering at the windows as the ocean surged. Moments later, violent waves slammed into the ship, sending water cascading over the viewing platform.
The impact rocked the vessel, making it difficult to stand. People lost their balance and fell as the ship swayed uncontrollably. In one clip, passengers ran from side to side while a TV swung wildly from a wall.
One daring man attempted to balance himself like a surfer as the ship tilted. A massive wave loomed ahead, adding to the intensity of the scene.
Travel blogger describes the experience as a ’48-hour rollercoaster’
Murphy shared her thoughts in the video caption. She described the voyage as a “48-hour rollercoaster” through some of the world’s roughest seas.
“I am proud to say we survived not one but two Drake Shakes!” she wrote. She explained the difference between calm waters, known as “Drake Lake,” and the stormy conditions called “Drake Shake.”
“If you’re like us, you get the Drake Shake with 35ft waves,” she added.
Despite the intense journey, Murphy found moments of enjoyment. “Yes, we were safe, and it was insane…and at times, even fun?” she reflected.
She mentioned silver linings, including downtime, laughter, and even realizing she doesn’t get seasick.
Social media reaction
The video quickly went viral and sparked discussions among viewers.
While many expressed their shock at the dangers of Mother Nature, others suggested that they would never go on a cruise again after watching this video.
Additionally, some imagined this terrifying moment as damage similar to Titanic.
One person said: Them windows must of been strong to hold the pressure of the sea smashing against it
A second wrote: OMG, the scene is truly horrifying. I hope everyone is okay.
While a third commented: I take a medication that affects my balance, and the floors and ground feel like that ALL THE TIME. It’s awful.
Another added: I’d take 50′ waves over a cruise ship norovirus outbreak any day…..and I still would take both over a Carnival Cruise Ghettovirus outbreak.
Someone else: OMG, I just imagined this as the Titanic if [it][ were 2025.