The passenger vessel Sea Diamond sank earlier today some hundred metres from shore of the Greek island Santorini. The vessel was classed by DNV.

Sea Diamond was a 22,412 gt passenger vessel built in 1986. It was built to DNV class   and has ever since been classed by DNV. It was flying Greek flag and was managed by Core Marine Limited, Piraeus.

The main class renewal survey was completed 28 April 2006. Last annual survey was carried out less than a month ago, 9 March 2007 in Piraeus, Greece.

At the time of the accident, DNV had issued class certificate, safety management certificate and ship security certificate. Sea Diamond had no overdue surveys and no condition of class.

DNV will assist and support the flag administration and the shipowner if an accident investigation is opened.