Exclusive: Highly Anticipated Three-Year Cruise to Set Sail Soon - Book Your Spot Now!
Life at Sea Cruises was set to embark on a thrilling three-year voyage around the globe on November 1 However, the company faced an unexpected setback as they are yet to acquire a ship Consequently, the launch date has been rescheduled to November 11, now commencing from the picturesque city of Amsterdam instead of Istanbul
Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travel's weekly newsletter and stay updated with the latest updates in aviation, food and drink, accommodations, and other travel developments. The three-year cruise, starting on November 1 from Istanbul, was expected to be a seamless journey around the world, immersing its passengers in a nomadic lifestyle.
With less than two weeks remaining before the planned departure, Life at Sea cruises finds itself in a precarious situation as it has yet to acquire a ship. Passengers, many of whom have already made substantial payments, have now been informed that they should make necessary arrangements to board in Amsterdam on November 11, which requires a three-hour flight from Istanbul.
Life at Sea cited that the delay in completing the purchase was due to the extended duration required for finalizing the funds transfer. They conveyed their anticipation of finalizing the purchase within one week.
Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes stated on October 6 that the sale of the ship, originally scheduled for late November, is expected to be finalized next week. Despite the delay, Holmes reassured that the cruise will still depart as planned on November 1 from Istanbul. She also emphasized that their team, with its extensive experience in the cruising industry, has always factored in contingency time in their schedules.
From Istanbul to Amsterdam
Passengers are due to spend three years sailing the globe.
Life At Sea Cruises
The company will require 18 days in dry dock to initiate renovations on the AidaAura cruise ship, which will be renamed MV Lara. Once completed, the ship will be repositioned to Amsterdam. This transformation from a three-year cruise to a perpetual voyage has been stated in their recent announcement.
"If you are not at ease with flying to Amsterdam, we will arrange for an embarkation in Freeport [Bahamas] on the 21st of November," states the message, which seems to be the same one delivered to passengers. Cruisers are instructed to get in touch with the company, which will cover the cost of redirecting individuals to either Amsterdam or Freeport, including accommodations and the trip plan.
"We acknowledge that this alteration may not be ideal, but we are making every effort to accommodate everyone and ensure that this journey proceeds smoothly, even if slightly delayed," they further emphasized.
They said they expect to complete the purchase within a week.
The three-year cruise hits another obstacle
Meanwhile, certain passengers are growing more anxious about the delays and what they perceive as a lack of transparency from Life at Sea cruises.
"We are all currently on edge - the uncertainty is agonizing," expressed an anonymous resident (referred to as passengers).
I can accept a delay, but I cannot accept a cancellation.
Another anonymous individual shared concerns about the possibility of the cruise not taking place, yet expresses both sadness and pride in having enrolled for such an incredible adventure.
"I just hope I get my money back if we dont sail," they added.
