Princess Cruises has announced the cancellation of the inaugural voyage of its new ship, Sun Princess.
- The cancellation comes as a result of delays at the Italian shipyard, Fincantieri, affecting the scheduled delivery.
- Passengers will be refunded their cruise fare, pre-purchased onboard services, and offered a 50% future cruise credit.
- Additional compensation includes up to $200 per person for air travel change fees.
- The line is set to host 3,000 agents to enhance trade relations amid operational changes.
In a significant change to its scheduled operations, Princess Cruises has officially cancelled the inaugural 10-day voyage of the Sun Princess, initially set to depart from Barcelona on 8 February. This decision stems from mutual agreements between the cruise line and its Italian shipbuilder, Fincantieri, due to postponed delivery of the new Sphere-class vessel, underscoring the unforeseen challenges in shipbuilding timelines.
The president of Princess Cruises, John Padgett, addressed this setback with a statement acknowledging the disappointment this news would bring to those who had anticipated the maiden voyage. “We understand that this news is disappointing, and we share in that disappointment,” he expressed, while offering sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused by the cancellation.
A comprehensive compensation package has been arranged for impacted guests, ensuring a full refund of the cruise fare and any additional onboard services they may have pre-purchased. Furthermore, guests are to receive a 50% future cruise credit, redeemable on any forthcoming Princess voyage, highlighting the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction amidst operational hurdles.
To alleviate further disruptions, Princess Cruises will also compensate up to $200 per person for any change fees incurred from altering air travel associated with the cancelled cruise. Additionally, in a move to protect its business partners, the company has committed to safeguarding travel agent commissions that could potentially be affected by this cancellation.
Concurrently, Princess Cruises is forging ahead with its strategy to fortify trade relations. The line has confirmed plans to accommodate a record-breaking 3,000 agents on board its vessels in 2024. This initiative represents a shift under the new UK and Europe sales director, Hayley Moore, who is driving efforts to place Princess at the forefront of the industry, anticipating a robust year ahead.
The cancellation, though unforeseen, is being handled with comprehensive guest compensation and strategic trade initiatives by Princess Cruises.
