Tensions boiled on an Antarctica cruise after engine trouble forced the ship to abandon its most scheduled stops.
Some passengers erupted in outrage staging a hunger strike to protest the last-minute change and what they deemed inadequate compensation.
The luxury expedition cruise vessel, SH Diana, left Cape Town on November 13 for a 21-day holiday to Antarctica. Two weeks into its voyage, one of its propellers broke down, forcing a detour to Ushuaia, Argentina where the ship could receive repairs.
The last-minute itinerary change meant the Polar-class vessel would no longer spend 3.5 days in Antarctica, canceling the most awaited part of its itinerary.
Its 177 passengers, who paid over $8,000 to $12,000 in fares, were offered 50% in refunds or 65% in future cruise credits. The cruise line also said it would provide free shore excursions in Argentina until December 3 when the cruise would end.
However, several guests felt that the cruise line’s terms were unsatisfactory. “Many of the passengers are very angry and it was getting nasty yesterday,” an insider informed The Times. “The company needs to make a better offer to quell the continuing rising anger,” the source added.
Three Russian passengers were so dissatisfied that they went on a hunger strike, demanding complete refunds.
During a tense meeting between crew members and guests, Chinese nationals submitted a letter to the cruise line, demanding full reimbursements and a free cruise.
Swan Hellenic’s CEO, Andrea Zito, held firm to the initial offer, stating that the company was already compensating them more than the legally mandated 30%. “We feel we have offered a very generous compensation package, beyond what is legally required,” the UK publication quoted Zito.
Though the cruise operator didn’t specify how long the hunger strike lasted, it has assured the public that the passengers have ended their public protest.
Sudden itinerary changes are big decisions that cruise lines take seriously. Some adjustments are made due to inclement weather (like this year’s hurricane season), while others are for maintenance reasons (like Carnival Vista’s recent dry dock).
Local events can also force vessels to alter their routes, which happened when Disney Wonder called off a visit to Nouméa, New Caledonia.
Before booking a cruise, it pays to be aware of the cruise passenger bill of rights so you know what you’re entitled to should any unexpected events occur.
