Slow rescue for ship trapped in Antarctic sea ice

Three rescue ships are headed towards an a passenger liner that's trapped in heavy Antarctic sea ice.

he MV Akademik Shokalskiy cruise ship wedged in thick sheets of sea ice. (AAP)

Three rescue ships are headed towards an Antarctic-bound liner that's trapped in heavy sea ice.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority says there are 74 people on board the Russian ship, but they are not in danger.

AMSA says three ice breaking ships, including an Australian vessel, have been sent to assist.

Spokeswoman Andrea Hayward-Maher told Santilla Chingaipe the nearest vessel is expected to reach the remote location on Friday night.

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