One Ocean Expeditions is working hard to rebook travellers and/or issue refunds after two cruise ships were “suddenly and unexpectedly” seized by Russian authorities.
In a statement, One Ocean Expeditions said two cruise ships it had exclusively been leasing since 2011 and 2012 were taken back by owners Kremlin, a Russian government entity.
The Canada-based Antarctica specialist continued, explaining that the seizure of Akademik Ioffe and Akademik Sergey Vavilov occurred in recent days and will affect upcoming sailings for the 2019/20 peak season.
One Ocean Expeditions stressed to media that the withdrawal of vessels was a “complete surprise” and entirely out of the line’s control.
“The withdrawal of the vessels for the 2019-20 season is a breach of the owners’ contract with OOE and is now the subject of legal action.”
Catherine Lawton, One Ocean Expeditions General Manager
Clients, Agents, partners and field team were “actively and proactively” informed of the incident, which the expedition company is hoping to resolve using its newest vessel RCGS Resolute.
The superior ice-class ship, which launched in 2018, will be a “key role” in short-term arrangements for guests able to re-book. In circumstances where travellers are unable to re-book, the cruise line will arrange a refund.
“We are working with our Agents and clients on an urgent basis to find alternatives for planned travel in the short-term… for those passengers unable to re-book we are working closely with Agents and clients to arrange refunds.”
Catherine Lawton, One Ocean Expeditions General Manager
Lawton thanked passengers and Agents for their understanding and reiterated that the company was “focused on the future” and “actively advancing a fleet renewal plan”, which will be revealed in the coming months.
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