A&K Cancels Jan. 4 Antarctica Sailing on Le Boréal

Abercrombie & Kent cancelled the Jan. 4 Antarctic cruise so its chartered vessel, Compagnie du Ponant’s Le Boréal, could undergo testing. The decision to cancel was made after inspections found “signs of wear” on some parts, and additional tests were advised.

Travel Daily reports up to 30 Australians are effected by the cancellation.

“We regret the disappointment but safety is our first priority,” A&K said in a statement. “All clients will receive a full refund or credit with a 10 percent discount for a future Antarctic cruise with A&K. Abercrombie & Kent has more than 20 years of experience operating safely in Antarctica and we are committed to providing the best expedition cruise experience.”

Ponant said the ship likely would have operated had the cruise been sailing anywhere but Antarctica. “If the ship had been sailing in any other part of the world, the parts would have been readily available and the work could easily have been done during its cruise,” Ponant said in a statement. “Compagnie du Ponant made the decision to replace the parts in Ushuaia prior to any problems arising while in the remote Antarctic region.”

“It is very unfortunate that the next sailing had to be canceled, particularly since it was completely booked. We felt we had to make that difficult decision as a precautionary measure and in the interest of our guests’ safety,” explained Terri Haas, chief commercial officer for the luxury cruise line. Ponant said the Jan. 19 cruise will sail as scheduled. For more information, visit www.abercrombiekent.com or http://en.ponant.com/.