Princess Cruises has cancelled Sun Princess’ delayed inaugural voyage on Sunday (18 February)

The vessel was due to depart on its maiden voyage from Rome after its original inaugural cruise from Barcelona on 8 February was pushed back due to delays with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

In a letter written to travel agents and guests seen by Cruise Trade News, the line’s president John Padgett confirmed Princess will still take delivery of the ship on Wednesday (14 February), but it must remain alongside in the shipyard to allow for additional technical work to be completed.

“We share in your deep disappointment and frustration, and sincerely apologise for the extreme disruption the late cancellation of this voyage creates,” he wrote.

Guests booked on the sailing will receive a full refund of the cruise fare along with any additional onboard services that were pre-purchased, as well as a 50% future cruise credit (FCC) that can be used on any future Princess voyage booked by 30 November 2024 and sailed by 31 December 2025.

“Rest assured, your booking will be automatically canceled, and you do not need to take any action to initiate the refund process,” Padgett added.

Princess Cruises to cover impacted guests’ expenses

Princess will also provide guests who have not yet started their travel with up to $200 USD per person to cover change fees related to their flights. If guests have already arrived in the region, prior to 14 February, the line will reimburse them for the entire cost of their roundtrip airfare.

In addition, for guests already in the region, Princess will refund the cost of their hotel of up to €450 per night covering the nights of Sunday, 18 February and Monday, 19 February, and a per diem of €140 per person, per day to help cover meals and other expenses over that two-day period.

“We understand the inconvenience and frustration that this news brings, and we do sincerely apologise for the disruption to your travel plans. We are committed to ensuring that your future experiences with Princess Cruises are nothing short of extraordinary,” Padgett said.