Coronavirus hits luxury cruise ship sailings
The Hebridean Princess will not be seen off the west coast this year after the ship’s operator cancelled sailings in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
Hebridean Island Cruises Ltd, the operator of the luxury 50-passenger Scottish cruise ship, last week cancelled all of its remaining sailings due to depart in 2020.
The company’s managing director Ken Charleson said: ‘We have been closely monitoring global developments regarding the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic since March of this year, and are fully focused on protecting the health, safety and welfare of our guests and crew.
‘Due to the continuing situation, and the confusion surrounding which cruises are allowed to operate around Scotland, we have taken the decision to cancel all of our remaining 2020 sailings on board Hebridean Princess.
‘Whilst this will be very disappointing for our guests, we continue to look forward to March 2021 when our new season will begin.
‘We are also mindful of the communities of the Highlands and Islands and the need to protect residents from any threat of the spread of coronavirus.’
Mr Charleson added: ‘We have also been advised by the owners of river ship, Royal Crown, that they have made the decision not to operate the vessel this year. Therefore, as a result of this decision, we are no longer able to operate our European river cruises scheduled to depart in October 2020.
‘We will be contacting all affected guests and trade partners during the next seven to 14 days outlining the options available to them.’