Attributable to unplanned upkeep, Royal Caribbean Worldwide has introduced the cancellation of the September 28, 2024, crusing of Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship.
Company had been notified of the cancellation days earlier than the cruise was set to sail from PortMiami on a seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary.
| In a press release to impacted visitors, Royal Caribbean stated, “We’re at the moment conducting unplanned upkeep onboard Icon of the Seas. Whereas our crew is working arduous to deal with this as shortly as doable, there may be nonetheless some work that must be completed over a number of days whereas the ship is docked.” |
Although the cruise line has not offered particular particulars on the repairs wanted, such cancellations are sometimes reserved for vital points, corresponding to propulsion or security system failures.
Compensation for Affected Company
Royal Caribbean is providing full refunds to all impacted passengers, together with taxes, charges, and any pre-paid packages corresponding to shore excursions, gratuities, and facilities.
For visitors who booked utilizing Future Cruise Credit (FCC), a brand new FCC can be issued, together with a refund for any further funds made past beforehand utilized credit.
Moreover, as a gesture of goodwill, Royal Caribbean is providing a 100% FCC equal to the fare paid, which can be utilized for future crusing. Company who booked flights straight via the cruise line will obtain automated refunds.
These with independently booked journey are eligible for reimbursement of as much as $200 for home flights and $400 for worldwide flights to cowl any cancellation or change charges.
Influence on Present Crusing and Future Itineraries
The unplanned upkeep additionally impacted Icon of the Seas‘ ongoing September 21, 2024 cruise to the Jap Caribbean. The vessel departed from Miami and can skip its scheduled cease in St. Thomas as a result of must sail at a diminished velocity.
Passengers had been as an alternative handled to a further sea day, and Royal Caribbean compensated them with onboard credit score equal to sooner or later’s cruise fare. The ship’s remaining stops, together with St. Maarten and Excellent Day at CocoCay, are anticipated to proceed as deliberate.
Regardless of the disruption, Royal Caribbean assured passengers that the ship was “secure and seaworthy,” though it will stay in Miami for upkeep. The cruise line additionally acknowledged that the vessel is predicted to renew its common schedule by the October 5 crusing.
Considerations Over Future Icon Cruises
Whereas the cruise line has confirmed that the repairs must be accomplished in time for the subsequent scheduled cruise, visitors booked on future sailings are understandably involved about the potential of additional cancellations. Royal Caribbean has inspired passengers to remain up to date on the ship’s standing as the upkeep progresses.
Icon of the Seas is the primary vessel in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, launched into service from PortMiami this previous January.