P&O Cruises Cancelation Ruins Irish Travelers’ Easter Holiday
Southampton — May 16, 2024 — Nineteen Irish travelers had their Easter holiday ruined after a P&O Cruises cancellation. The cruise, scheduled to depart from Southampton to Zeebrugge, was called off just a day before departure. The abrupt changes left passengers scrambling and facing financial losses.A P&O cruises spokesperson issued an apology, but travelers are now seeking fair compensation, and will likely pursue further legal action.
P&O cruises Cancellation Ruins irish Travelers’ Easter Holiday
Southampton, England —
Nineteen Irish passengers experienced disappointment after P&O Cruises canceled their trip with only 24 hours’ notice. The abrupt cancellation disrupted carefully laid plans and left travelers scrambling for alternatives.
Sudden Cancellation Shocks Passengers
- The adult-only Aurora cruise, capable of carrying over 1,800 passengers, was scheduled to sail from Southampton, England, to Zeebrugge, Belgium.
- The cruise, set to begin on Easter Monday, was canceled the day before departure, leaving travelers in a lurch.
Birthday Plans Derailed
Niamh McCarthy, from Gorey, county Wexford, had organized the cruise as a 40th birthday celebration with 18 friends.The sudden cancellation threw her plans into disarray.
Did You Know?
Cruise lines often have clauses in their contracts allowing them to cancel trips for various reasons, including mechanical issues or unforeseen circumstances.Passengers should always review these terms before booking.
Ms. McCarthy expressed her frustration, explaining that the group incurred various expenses, from childcare to pet care. Most upsetting of all my 40th birthday was spent scrambling for alternatives.
Financial Repercussions
The group faced immediate financial losses due to the cancellation.
- Non-refundable flights from Dublin.
- Airport parking fees.
- Childcare costs.
- Dog kennel fees.
- Pre-paid nail, hair, and makeup appointments.
The seven-day wait for reimbursement further complicated efforts to arrange an alternative celebration. This was meant to be a joyful celebration with close friends and family, rather it was filled with stress and disappointment,
Ms. McCarthy stated.
Passengers Seek Fair Compensation
The group deemed P&O cruises’ offer of 20% off future cruises as frankly disappointing and inappropriate.
They are seeking a realistic and respectful compensation package
to cover their additional expenses beyond the cruise fare.
Pro Tip
Travel insurance can protect you against losses due to cruise cancellations. Make sure your policy covers trip interruptions and unforeseen expenses.
P&O Cruises’ Apology
A P&O Cruises spokesperson issued the following statement:
We are very sorry but following a delay to Aurora’s refit, it is necessary to cancel Aurora’s R505 three night cruise from Southampton to Zeebrugge on 21 April. We appreciate how disappointing this is for our guests who were booked to travel.
P&O Cruises Spokesperson
The spokesperson added that all guests will receive a full refund and a Future Cruise Credit of 20 per cent of monies paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why was the cruise canceled?
- The cruise was canceled due to a delay in the Aurora’s refit.
- What compensation are passengers receiving?
- passengers will receive a full refund and a future cruise credit of 20%.
- What additional expenses did passengers incur?
- Passengers incurred costs for flights, parking, childcare, pet care, and appointments.
- What are passengers hoping for?
- Passengers are hoping for a realistic and respectful compensation package for their additional costs.
