Administrators called into Hebridean


Cruises are not being cancelled on Hebridean International Cruises' single ship despite administrators being called into the company.

Colin Dempster and Fiona Taylor, of Ernst & Young, were appointed joint administrators.

The move came a day after the company finalised the sale of one of its two ships, Hebridean Spirit, for a reported $7 million.

But an original offer to provide refunds to passengers booked on the larger of the firm's two ships has been reversed

"We regret to advise that the joint administrators are not in a position to refund any customers in respect of the cancelled Hebridean Spirit cruises," a statement said.

Last month, Hebridean Spirit customers were contacted to advise them of the forthcoming sale and were informed that a full refund would be given to those who had booked cruises.

Cruises on Hebridean Princess are not being cancelled, the administrators said.

"The administrators recognise the value of the Princess business and have taken steps to secure funding to continue its sailing schedule as planned," a statement said.

"The Princess is therefore continuing to trade whilst we pursue a sale of the business as a going concern."

Those booked on cancelled sailings may be protected by the Civil Aviation Authority's ATOL scheme and are being advised to contact ATOL on 020 7453 6350 between 09.00 to 17.00 Monday to Friday or visit the website at INVALID URL a statement on the company's website said.

"Customers should also check their travel insurance policy since it may provide cover for the cancellation. The type of cover provided will vary according to the type of policy taken out. Your policy may cover the complete or partial cost of the original booking purchased.

"If you paid by credit card, you may also be protected by Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974. You should check with your credit card provider for further advice."

With permission from Travelmole