FORT LAUDERDALE --
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) canceled all voyages of the
Radisson Diamond beginning with its June 4 cruise on the news that
the ships new owners will take possession of the 350-passenger
vessel earlier than expected.
Originally, RSSC had
hoped the new owners, a Hong Kong-based company called Asia
Cruises, would allow RSSC to continue its charter of the Diamond
through the end of its published Mediterranean season in October.
Last week, RSSC canceled the Diamonds Oct. 22 sailing and
beyond.
They just told us
yesterday they [Asia Cruises] need the ship immediately, RSSC CEO
Mark Conroy told TravelWeekly.com.
The unique
twin-hulled Diamond is RSSCs original vessel. The line has operated
the ship on a long-term charter from a consortium of Finnish banks.
In a letter to travel agents, which was being distributed Wednesday
afternoon, Conroy said the Diamond has been operating virtually at
full capacity for the past year with excellent levels of guest
satisfaction, so it is with great regret that we bring you this
news.
The line is offering
full refunds and a $700 per-person cruise credit to passengers
booked on cruises between June 4 and Oct. 15, which can be applied
to any other RSSC sailing in 2005. Agents will receive a $100 check
per canceled booking and a $100 per-passenger bonus commission for
rebooking clients for 2005 cruises.
With Asia Cruises,
the Diamond will reposition to Hong Kong and be used as a gaming
vessel, Conroy said.
To contact
reporter Rebecca Tobin, send e-mail to [email protected].