Van Gogh cruises, new problems

Van Gogh Cruise Line, the one-ship line that was created in February when tour operator Travelscope collapsed, is being forced to cancel 17 planned cruises.

After Van Gogh completes its world cruise on April 5th, the next seven months of holidays will not take place, although there is hope that the November 2009 cruise will be able to run.

Those scheduled to sail Van Gogh on one of the now-cancelled cruises are being contacted by the line and offered the chance to reschedule to a winter sailing if new arrangements cannot be agreed, passengers will receive a full refund. The problems arose after the line was refused membership to the British trade association, ABTA, following a dispute over insurance bonds with Lloyd’s of London which issues bonds for many cruise lines. Anybody booked to cruise with the Van Gogh Cruise Line should contact their travel agent or the company direct to explore their options.

Charity cruise offer with Royal Caribbean International A small number of lucky people will be able to sail with Sir Steve Redgrave on a charity cruise on the RCI line’s massive new ship Independence of the Seas in April. The exclusive two-night charity cruise will follow the ship’s official naming ceremony in Southampton on April 30th. For just £999 per person, the lucky few will get to attend the naming ceremony and then enjoy a black tie dinner and charity auction hosted by Sir Steve, as well as spending two nights on the ship with all meals and drinks included. Singles can book for a reduced rate of £767 per person. Proceeds from the sale of tickets will be shared between the Sir Steve Redgrave Fund, set up to improve opportunities for children and young people across the UK, and Sport Relief.