Operated by Swan Hellenic, the vessel left Cape Town on 13 November but is now slowly making its way to Ushuaia, Argentina, for repairs.
The malfunction of an electric motor halted the planned Antarctic stops, including iconic locations like Elephant Island and Deception Island. Among the protesting passengers, a small group of Russians reportedly staged a hunger strike, expressing anger over the cruise line's handling of the situation.
Passengers, who paid up to €10,000, criticized Swan Hellenic's compensation offer of a 50% refund or a 65% credit for a future trip. One passenger noted, “To go to Antarctica is a trip of a lifetime and this specific sailing made it achievable for many on board to do so as it’s a repositioning sailing that had attractive deals.”
Swan Hellenic’s CEO, Andrea Zito, acknowledged the disappointment, calling the missed Antarctic leg the “highlight of the cruise” and stated that the compensation offered exceeds legal requirements. The company has also promised excursions in Ushuaia while passengers wait for their return flights.
The ship, marketed as eco-friendly with zero-emission technology, is expected to arrive in Ushuaia on 2 December for repairs.