The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has set a new launch date for its inaugural cruise: June 13, 2020, a 7-night voyage from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca. This represents a four-month delay from the original February 5 launch date, due to both financial and management difficulties at the Hijos de J. Barreras shipyard and numerous design changes imposed by Ritz-Carlton, as reported by shipyard workers in Vigo.
Passengers affected by this change will receive a full refund as well as improved fares for booking a future cruise.
“We sincerely apologize to all guests who were ready to sail with us in early 2020,” the cruise line stated, guaranteeing that construction will continue and that the delay will be worthwhile: “Our focus remains on ensuring a flawless delivery, with the standards of quality and service for which The Ritz-Carlton is known. Our team is deeply committed to delivering a highly customized, state-of-the-art build that will make our inaugural yacht the most distinctive in its class.”.
The hotel company is negotiating with Pemex (the majority shareholder) to ensure the shipyard's viability. "Both the new board of Hijos de J. Barreras and the board of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are working cooperatively toward a long-term solution for the shipyard," the U.S. group stated.
