Angry passengers left high and dry after Star Cruises cancels Hong Kong sailing

Star Cruises cancelled a scheduled departure from Hong Kong on Friday evening because of “an unforeseen technical issue”, with angry passengers who waited for hours to board complaining they had been treated like “refugees”.

The cruise operator apologised for the cancellation, adding that customers had been offered the option of transferring their booking to another date or receiving a full refund.

“Star Cruises regrets to inform that the Star Voyager sailing scheduled on February 13, for the ‘2 Night High Seas Cruise’ departing from Hong Kong Ocean Terminal, has been cancelled due to an unforeseen technical issue,” a spokesman said.

“Star Cruises remains fully committed to delivering a safe and enjoyable travel experience. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our guests and partners.”

The firm did not elaborate on the technical issue or when it was discovered.

According to a post by social media user “Longman Lo” at around 5.20pm, hundreds of passengers were already queuing at Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, with staff handing out water to those waiting to board.

Another post at around 9.20pm showed that crowds were still waiting at the boarding area.