MV Freewinds is a cruise ship owned and operated by the Church of Scientology under the name ‘Majestic Cruise Lines’.  The ship has been used for decades as a traveling educational and social center for Scientology members and potential members.  Thousands of people have been aboard the MV Freewinds after paying to attend Scientology courses, training services and functions.

As of April 28 the ship has been sealed and quarantined in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles, following the discovery of significant amounts of blue asbestos in the ship’s structure. A statement from the ship’s captain has revealed previous incidents where blue asbestos was released into the ship’s ventilation system. The Curacao Drydock Company was contracted to conduct refurbishment and repairs on the MV Freewinds, but has ceased work due to the risk of exposure to the asbestos.

Samples taken from the paneling last week by inspectors showed that they contained significant amounts of blue asbestos.  Seven years ago, allegations were made that Scientologists aboard the ship were being put at risk of asbestos exposure.

An affidavit filed in 2001 by Lawrence Woodcraft, a former Scientologist and trained architect, claims that Woodcraft encountered the blue asbestos while working on the ship in 1987, and promptly informed Scientology leaders.  Apparently, his concerns were ignored.