Free-running model tests were conducted using a scaled model of a large cruise ship with a damaged compartment, to investigate the effects of damage opening and floodwater on the manoeuvring performance in calm water and regular and irregular head waves. Drifting tests in regular beam waves were also performed. The experimental results indicated that the course-keeping ability in waves and turning ability became worse in the damaged condition. However, the target ship retained its manoeuvrability for safe return to the port, on its own, even in a damaged state. As it is time- and cost-consuming to conduct a free-running model experiment, a captive model test was also carried out to develop a system-based simulation model for evaluating the manoeuvrability of large cruise ships after damage.