Lindblad Expeditions’ first new-build ship, a joint venture with National Geographic, has had to cancel its first two cruises because of damage suffered during its launching.
The ship, National Geographic Quest, was to sail on its first trip on July 8. In a statement, Lindblad said “In the process of launching from the shipyard to the sea, stern first…she slid from the launch ramp and one propeller and rudder were grounded and damaged.”
The company, known for luxurious small-ship expeditions to unusual places, including the Antarctic, is offering passengers a choice of either cancelling for a full refund and a $2000 credit for a future cruise, or 50% off if the passenger books a new cruise right away.
