Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has cancelled four winter sailings due to a lack of demand and high fuel prices.
In an open letter on Facebook, the line said the four sailings on Bolette were cancelled because they did not reach the guest numbers it expected, during a traditionally quieter booking period.
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Instead of sailing, the ship will undergo routine technical work which had been planned for 2023.
Bolette will return on December 21 for its planned Christmas cruise to Norway, while the ship’s full winter schedule will be moved from Tilbury to Dover and Southampton.
Additionally, a sailing on Balmoral has been cancelled due to an “issue with one of the propellers”.
The ship is in drydock in Newcastle, prompting the cancellation of its next cruise from Rosyth on Monday (August 29).
Balmoral will sail again from Southampton on September 11 and the rest of the ship’s schedule remains unchanged.
The announcements follow the news that Fred Olsen Junior stepped down from his position as chairman last month after 35 years in the cruise industry, though the line stressed the departure was not linked to the cancellations.
In the Facebook post, managing director Peter Deer wrote: “We got through the pandemic which was the most difficult time for the travel industry, and cruise lines in particular.
“During this time, we invested in our business by buying two beautiful new ships. Like every travel company, trying to get back to normal, we are still having to navigate some choppy seas along the way.
“Our job during this is to look after our guests and crew and ensure we provide a wonderful experience.
“I sincerely apologise to all guests who are affected on cruises this winter. I hope you will give us the chance to put this right for you.”
Travel Weekly has approached Fred Olsen Cruise Lines for further comment.