With the Dow closing under 10,000 today, many of us are reevaluating our business and leisure plans for 2009. Cruise lines are no different. Rising fuel costs, tighter airline capacity, and a soft U.S. economy are affecting all companies and sometimes tough decisions must be made. American Safari Cruises made such a decision today by deferring entry into the Hawaii inter-island cruise market. The line's newly rennovated Safari Explorer was set to sail Hawaiian itineraries starting this November.According to Capt. Dan Blanchard, president and CEO of American Safari Cruises, "It's the wise and prudent thing to do. We plan to inaugurate our Hawaii cruises when liquidity returns to the capital markets."
Guests who are booked for Hawaii cruises will receive full refunds, future cruise savings of 15 percent, and allowances for air ticketing. They also will be given first priority to secure space in American Safari Cruises' other active warm water destination, Mexico's Sea of Cortés. The 22-guest Safari Quest begins the eighth season in Mexico on November 13 with seven- or nine-night sailings through April 7, 2009. Re-accommodated Hawaii guests will also receive a $250 per person air credit.
While this is disappointing news, I hope all affected travelers will be able to rebook an alternative American Safari experience. This is one of my favorite cruise lines and I look forward to when Hawaii cruises are added back to American Safari's agenda. In the meantime, check their website for other fantastic itineraries in Mexico, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest.
Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises
