MILLENNIUM EXPECTED BACK IN SERVICE SEPT. 22

After persistent propulsion problems brought Celebrity Millennium’s Alaska cruise season to an end earlier this month, officials have announced plans to have the ship back in service Sept. 22 when it will sail from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (via the Panama Canal). The ship is currently making its way from Alaska to Grand Bahama where it will enter dry dock and a new 250-ton propulsion pod installed. Affected sailings include Aug. 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Sept. 6 and 13. Full refunds are being offered to all affected passengers as well as vouchers of varying value (depending on the sail date) to be used towards a future Celebrity cruise.

In a conference call this morning, Celebrity president Michael Bayley apologized to all those affected, including travel partners, and noted that most have been quite understanding given the circumstances. “The vast majority of customers were remarkably understanding. We’ve been very open, explaining everything. It was a complicated situation.” He added that Celebrity will also take advantage of the “down time” to work with crew and do general refurbishments to the Millennium.

With the Millennium making its way to Grand Bahama and the new 250-ton part on its way aboard a ship from Rotterdam, Bayley said he is confident with their schedule to get everything done and certified by the Sept. 22 sailing out of San Diego. He said the Millennium will re-enter service in better condition than ever before. (http://www.celebritycruises.com)