Uniworld Takes Legal Action Against MSC

Uniworld's River Cruise vessel, 'River Countess' was damaged by MSC Opera as she sat docked at Venice last June

Uniworld’s River Countess was struck by MSC Opera while docked in Venice last June, causing significant damage.

Uniworld have issued a statement which said it was “seeking reimbursement” for damages to the River Countess due to the collision with MSC Opera at the San Basilio Cruise Terminal in the Italian city of Venice.

Uniworld have reported that the legal action follows “extensive conversations” between its chief executive and president, Ellen Bettridge, and MSC which have been “unproductive”.

Ellen Bettridge if Uniworld said: “We are extremely disappointed with the unprofessional manner in which MSC has decided to ignore the gravity of the situation, which has disrupted our guests, our partners and our team.

“Aside from the severe damage to [River Countess], we were forced to cancel 14 voyages, frustrating our guests and travel partners during the peak summer season.”

Currently Uniworld have estimated its losses, which is inclusive of passenger reimbursement, ship damage, lost revenue and the protection of travel agent commissions to be in excess of €11.5 million.

This estimate excludes additional potential claims from customers and related damages, the line said.

“We do not like to litigate but have been compelled to do so based on the stonewalling and delays by MSC and its representatives – even after receiving a letter of guarantee by their own insurance agency, West of England,” Bettridge added.

“We expect more and better from a fellow member of the cruise industry and regret having to go to court to seek fitting remedy.”

Uniworld said the incident has had an impact on close to 1,600 guests over the months following the incident.

“Uniworld is part of The Travel Corporation, which celebrates a century of travel excellence this year. The company prides itself on delivering service which exceeds our customers’ expectations and that is put to the test most not when things go right, but when things go wrong.

“We are holding MSC to that standard. This situation has been incredibly distressing, particularly for those guests and crew who experienced the traumatic moment onboard first-hand and those who watched the terrifying videos in the days to follow; we wish for nothing more than to put this behind us. It’s time for them to come to the table and make us whole,” Bettridge said.

The incident remains under investigation by the Italian authorities.

NI Travel News has contacted MSC Cruises for comment.

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