Luxury cruise ship passengers on hunger strike after engine failure wrecks dream polar voyage
After their ideal polar journey was ruined by an engine problem, guests aboard luxury cruises have gone on hunger strike.
After their trip was cut short, passengers aboard the SH Diana objected when Swan Hellenic, the tour operator, refused to give them a complete refund.
Two weeks ago, the 20-night journey departed Cape Town, South Africa, with stops planned at locations on and around Antarctica.
However, a problem with one of the eco-friendly hybrid engines on the year-old ship forced the liner to cancel the trip.
A 50% refund or a 65% future cruise credit was offered to passengers who paid between $7,000 and $10,000.
Russians make up the majority of the crew. About ten British people are present.
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According to a letter from travelers who requested a complete refund, many of us have always wanted to visit Antarctica.
“Some people have worked hard to reach this stage, only to have their journey cut short.
Swan Hellenic defended their offer as superior to the legal need of a 30% return, despite claiming that a small number had gone on a hunger strike.
As the ship crept to Ushuaia, Argentina, for repairs, the wrangling continued last night. In a week, it should arrive.
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