MIAMI -- Power problems with the Norwegian Star's Azipod propulsion
system is slowing the ship.
An NCL spokeswoman said the Star's malfunctioning transformer
can be repaired while the ship is in motion, but since it can't
cruise at full speed it will change its itinerary -- and miss two
consecutive calls in Fanning Island on its Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 Hawaii
cruises.
By missing Fanning Island, the Star's foreign-port call, NCL
will not be fulfilling the requirements of U.S. cabotage laws. The
spokeswoman said the line notified the U.S. Customs department
about the itinerary change and does not know yet whether the ship
will be fined.