However, this was not what enraged the passengers, since they understood that for security reasons, there was no point in venturing to these more remote areas. What ignited the situation was the company’s handling of the situation. “Swan Hellenic is handling the situation catastrophically”a passenger told the Times. The company actually offered tourists a 50% refund (the cruise cost between 8,500 and 12,000 euros…) or a 65% reduction on a cruise to be taken within two years. She also promised free excursions to Ushuaia, once the boat arrived at its destination.
A retiree spends 270,000 euros on a cruise for life: she is kicked off the liner for criticizing the trip on WhatsApp
A hunger strike in the hope of reimbursement
But this did not convince the 170 passengers. “Many passengers are very angry and it’s getting worse every day. The company must come up with a better proposal to quell the growing revolt.”always indicates the same source to the Times. Tourists, of Russian nationality, went so far as to start a hunger strike. Their goal? Obtain a full refund from Swan Hellenic.
While photos of passengers leading their hunger strike abound on the Web, Andrea Zito, general director of the company, reacted. “A large number of obviously very disappointed passengers accepted our offer and some have already changed their reservations. The initial unease has largely dissipated. A few people have chosen to go on hunger strike in protest, which is rather counterproductive.”he confided.
It remains to be seen how those responsible for the cruise will manage the rest. Currently, the ship continues its route to Ushuaia, but at a very slow speed due to technical problems. An end to the journey that promises to be a long, very long one.
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