Norwegian Cruise Line is apologizing to customers for ending a cruise early due to technical difficulties.
The Norwegian Pearl, which departed from Amsterdam, was set for a 13-day cruise with stops in Belgium, France, Spain and Monaco. However, the ship left its 2,732 passengers stranded in Barcelona on July 2.
It was supposed to finish in Livorno, Italy on July 5.
Norwegian Cruise Line spokeswoman Christine Da Silva told USA TODAY in a statement that the ship “experienced a technical issue which necessitated that she travel at a reduced speed.” The ship skipped a scheduled stop in Palma, Mallorca, in Spain, and went directly to Barcelona “to make necessary repairs,” she said. Norwegian has canceled the Norwegian Pearl cruise that was sent to take off on July 5.
“We are truly sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience our guests have experienced as a result of this unforeseen situation,” Da Silva’s statement continued. “Our team is working diligently to assist all of our affected guests and to keep them informed with the latest details as they become available. We thank them for their continued support and loyalty.”
Norwegian Cruise Line is apologizing to customers after canceling a cruise in Barcelona to make repairs following a technical issue. (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Passengers have voiced their frustrations on social media.
One passenger wrote on Wednesday: “I am currently in the Norwegian Pearl and it was just announced that the Pearl will not leave Barcelona port to Rome. It will stay in Barcelona until further notice or at least until Friday. As it is frustrating to you, imagine us that were already in the ship.”
I am currently in the Norwegian Pearl and it was just announced that the Pearl will not leave Barcelona port to Rome. It will stay in Barcelona until further notice or at least until Friday. As it is frustrating to you, imagine us that were already in the ship.
“4am call from my 75yr old parents stuck 2 days so far on the #norwegianpearl ship in Barcelona. No clear communication from @CruiseNorwegian if they can continue to Rome. Anyone have any updates? #ncl,” wrote a daughter of two passengers.
Norwegian is giving all guests on the June 22 trip a 50% refund and 50% future cruise credit based on how much they originally paid for the trip, and will also pay up to $300 for guests’ flight change fees. Guests on the upcoming Greek Isles and Italy cruise that’s been canceled will see their trip reimbursed in full plus a 100% future cruise credit. They’ll get the same $300 for flight changes.
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