Fred Olsen cancels inaugural cruise

Fred Olsen has been forced to cancel the planned sailing of its new ship, Balmoral, as a result of construction problems.

The new liner was supposed to depart on 31st January for a 14-day cruise around the Canary Islands following an extensive refit.

The announcement that technical reasons have forced a delay comes only a week after the line announced that it would have to abandon the planned three day inaugural celebration in Dover.

Complex work, including lengthening the vessel, along with more traditional refurbishment, has been undertaken since Fred Olsen took delivery of the ship in November 2007 – it seems a range of unforeseen technical hitches have emerged in the past week. All the passengers who booked for the inaugural cruise will receive a letter confirming the cancellation and be offered a full refund and 50% off any future cruise taking place up to 2010.