Tensions have erupted aboard the luxury cruise ship SH Diana as frustrated passengers protest the cancellation of their once-in-a-lifetime voyage to Antarctica due to an engine malfunction. A small group of travelers has resorted to a hunger strike, demanding full refunds after the cruise operator, Swan Hellenic, declined to offer complete reimbursements for the disrupted journey.
The 20-night expedition, which began on November 13 in Cape Town, South Africa, promised stops at remote locations including Elephant Island, Paulet Island, and Deception Island. Passengers paid between $8,882 and $12,689 for tickets, drawn by the allure of exploring Antarctica on the boutique, five-star vessel completed just last year.
The SH Diana, the largest ship in Swan Hellenic’s fleet, developed technical issues with its propeller drive. The malfunction forced the cancellation of the South Georgia stop and the highly anticipated Antarctic leg. Passengers were offered compensation in the form of a 50% cash refund or a 65% credit toward future cruises, as well as complimentary excursions in Ushuaia, Argentina, where the ship is expected to undergo repairs after arriving this Saturday.
The cruise line expressed regret over the incident. "We deeply regret that we had to change the itinerary due to the technical problems with the propeller drive," said Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito. "We understand the disappointment of our guests who were looking forward to a taste of the Antarctic experience."
Despite these measures, many travelers expressed dissatisfaction, accusing the company of mishandling the situation. Photos from the ship show passengers holding signs demanding full refunds. Some guests described the journey as a missed opportunity of a lifetime, with one passenger stating, “Some guests are elderly, disabled, and have struggled already to get to this point. Visiting Antarctica is a life-long bucket list goal for many of us.”
Russian passengers initiated a hunger strike to underscore their frustration, while others voiced their grievances on social media. “They are scamming everyone and taking their money,” claimed disillusioned passenger Zachary Morgan in a Facebook post.
The 409-foot-long vessel, which features amenities such as an outdoor pool, spa, library, and expedition lab, is now traveling at a reduced speed of 6 knots (11 km/h) toward Ushuaia. The journey’s unexpected derailment has left passengers grappling with disappointment, as many believe their Antarctic dreams have been permanently dashed.
While Swan Hellenic labeled the hunger strike “counterproductive,” the company reiterated its commitment to addressing passenger concerns and bringing the matter to a swift resolution.
