Due to project complications, Windstar Cruises has canceled a total of 20 cruises on its
three ships that are being stretched.
Windstar said that while replacing the engines on the Star
Breeze with more efficient models, workers discovered asbestos in the engine
room and mechanical spaces. It hired Italian firm SAIT to conduct asbestos
abatement.
The extra work will delay completion of the Star Breeze
expansion from Feb. 28, 2020, until May 4, 2020, resulting in the
cancellations.
That delay will have a cascading effect on the schedules for
the Star Legend and Star Pride, which are also being cut in half and stretched
through insertion of a block of cabins and other areas in the middle of the
ship.
Star Legend and Star Pride will complete their renovations
now on August 30, 2020, and Nov. 29, 2020, respectively.
Windstar said it has contacted all travel agents and guests
affected by the delays. Passengers can cancel for a full refund plus a 10%
future cruise credit, or rebook another Windstar cruise in 2020 or 2021.
Those rebooking will get the same rate if they choose a
cruise similar in length and itinerary. If not, the cruise will be at “the
prevailing rate,” Windstar said. Rebooking guests get a $100 shipboard credit,
a 20% future cruise credit and full reimbursement of all nonrefundable travel
expenses.
“We sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause our
guests and travel partners,” said Windstar Cruises president John Delaney.
Windstar said the asbestos was used primarily on gaskets for
a limited number of valves and pumps and related insulation. It was not found
in any guest or crew accommodations or in any public spaces, Windstar said, and
air tests did not detect asbestos in any air samples.
The three ships were built for Seabourn in Germany in the
1980s. Windstar acquired them in 2014 and 2015. Originally built for 212
passengers, the ships are being increased to a capacity of 312 in a $250
million reconstruction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Italy.