Royal Caribbean International has erred on the side of caution and canceled all bookings on its Rhapsody of the Seas ship that was supposed to depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico on Sunday, September 15.
The culprit is a damaged lifeboat that leaves the ship without the industry standard of providing enough seats on a lifeboat for every passenger.
“On our previous sailing, there was damage to one of our tender boats, which also serves as a lifeboat,” Royal Caribbean said in a letter to guests. “Unfortunately, this means we’ll be unable to welcome you onboard. We know this is disappointing news and we’re terribly sorry for the impact on your vacation plans.”
The company is providing guests with a full refund as well as credit for a future Royal Caribbean cruise.
The cruise line also said it would reimburse customers for some non-refundable transportation expenses such as flights, trains and rental cars.
Rhapsody of the Seas was set to make port in several southern Caribbean countries.
Earlier this summer, Royal Caribbean named singer Meghan Trainor as the godmother of sister ship Utopia of the Seas.
More Stories
Venice Will Extend Day Trip Tax Through 2025 to Address Overtourism
North America Remains Top Travel Destination, According to Latest Amadeus Report
Biden Administration Launches Investigation Into Airlines’ Competition