Regent Seven Seas Cancels Voyager Sailings for Repairs

Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) has cancelled the April 18 and May 8 departures of the 700-passenger Seven Seas Voyager in order to repair one of its pod propulsion units. The starboard propulsion unit became entangled with the fishing net on or about March 18 after departing Singapore and subsequently experienced mechanical failure, which resulted in a shutdown of the pod.

The mishap does not compromise the ship’s safety or seaworthiness, but the damaged unit substantially reduces the vessel’s cruising speed, impeding its ability to operate its scheduled itineraries, according to a company statement.

The ship will be withdrawn from service upon arrival in Rome (Civitavecchia) on April 18. Arrangements will be made to transport all passengers to their cities of origin, including the shipping of luggage, from Rome.

RSSC is informing passengers booked on the April 18 sailing from Istanbul and the May 8 sailing from Fort Lauderdale, as well as their travel agents, of the cancellations and offering a variety of options, including re-booking on an alternative RSSC cruise or cruises, or a full refund.

The line is protecting travel agent commissions on all affected sailings. A special toll-free phone number (800-505-5632) is available to answer questions and provide details to passengers and agents with reservations on the affected sailings.