Virgin Voyages has revealed that four Trans-Tasman cruises scheduled between January and March next year have been cancelled following “client and industry” feedback.
The company told Cruise Weekly, “We’re just adjusting our sailing schedule to provide more round-trip sailings in Australia from Melbourne and Sydney” following feedback from clients and the travel industry about the previous itineraries that were offered.
The move means more local and shorter journeys to trial and brand will go on sale – offering a larger chance for Australians to trial the new vessels.
A number of lines were last season caught out by New Zealand’s tough new hull cleaning laws to prevent environmental damage. They were forced to cancel itineraries and pay lefty compensation bills.
There are still four Australia to New Zealand cruises available for those that wish to cross the Tasman with Virgin Voyages. These cruises are on December 29, January 12, March 5 and March 15.
The departures cancelled were for cruises in 2024 on January 23, February 2, February 14 and February 24, however, new cruise options are promised to arrive soon.
All of those affected by the changes will receive a 100% future credit, along with bonus credits that will vary in value based on the category of room you have booked.
Alternatively, guests can also opt for a full refund if that is their preference.
The sailings are on Resilient Lady, which is currently sailing its inaugural European season before she heads to Australia in December this year.
Virgin says that 40% of customers that sail with them become repeat customers, with anticipation high for their first season sailing in Australia.
