Royal Caribbean International has announced the cancellation of a 10-night New Zealand voyage aboard the Anthem of the Seas.
Authorities cite that the ship suffered major propulsion problems, forcing it to limp back to port at reduced speed.
The technical problem occurred during the vessel’s current cruise in the South Pacific.
According to the satellite data, a 168,666 ton ship was traveling at only 14 knots. This shows that the ship’s speed was significantly below its top speed of 22 knots. This delays its return to Sydney, Australia, from its scheduled time of 5 p.m. 6:30 (local time) to approximately 16:00 (local time) Tuesday 27 January.
Because of this, Royal Caribbean has canceled the ship’s next voyage, scheduled for January 27 from New Zealand.
The crew confirmed that the repairs could not be completed in time.
The company apologized to guests, saying in an official statement: “We know how much time and effort goes into planning your cruise and we are truly sorry for this disappointing news.”
The exact nature of the problem has not been officially confirmed, but industry analysts stated that there is a problem with one of the ship’s Azipod propulsion units.
Will passengers get a refund after the Royal Caribbean ship was cancelled?
Passengers will receive a 100% refund of their cruise fare, taxes and prepaid packages. As compensation, they will also be given 25% future cruise credit. Royal Caribbean reimburses up to $400 per person for international flights and up to $250 per stateroom for hotel expenses.
Guests already on board have been offered free communication tools and extensions to their beverage and internet packages. They are advised not to book flights departing from Sydney before 20.00 Tuesday.
