The concept of a three-year cruise, which was intended to provide a unique nomadic living experience for its passengers, is currently facing turbulent times. With less than two weeks remaining for its scheduled departure, Life at Sea Cruises has yet to secure a ship for the voyage.
Passengers, many of whom have already invested significant amounts for this journey, have been informed of a change in plans. The new departure date is set for November 11, but from Amsterdam instead of the originally planned Istanbul. This change requires passengers to travel an additional three hours by flight to reach the new departure point.
In a statement to CNN, Life at Sea attributed the delay to complications in “finalizing the funds transfer for the purchase” of the ship. The company remains optimistic about completing the purchase within the coming week. However, this assurance mirrors a similar statement made two weeks prior, where the company anticipated the transfer of ship ownership “next week.”
Once the company acquires the AidaAura cruise ship (planned to be renamed MV Lara), it will require 18 days of renovations in dry dock before repositioning to Amsterdam. For passengers uncomfortable with the change to Amsterdam, the company offers an alternative embarkation point in Freeport, Bahamas, on November 21. Life at Sea Cruises has committed to covering the costs of rerouting passengers, including accommodation and other related expenses.
Despite the company’s efforts to accommodate and reassure passengers, concerns are growing among them. The uncertainty and perceived lack of transparency have left many anxious. Some passengers are hopeful for the journey, while others are apprehensive about potential cancellations and the return of their investments.