No Norwegian Dream for Thomson?

[davecttr]

I see the news that NCL's sale of the Norwegian Dream to Luise Cruise Lines has fallen through do to 'technical issues'. There was speculation here some time ago about whether the Dream would end up with Thomsons but maybe not? Or would TUI be interested, or will Island Star end up in Thompson colours. At captains question time a couple of weeks ago Captain Leach said that any new ships would have to fit in with Thomsons cruising 'model', whatever that is. Or will there be casualties due to the recession resulting in a juicy crop of ships at knock down prices!.

[SwissLe]

Star Cruises has today terminated the agreement to sell the 1992-built Norwegian Dream for Louis Cruises and Marzio Shipholding, the Asian company announced for Hong Kong Kong Stock Exchange. Star Cruises originally announced the sale of its two remaining mid-generation ships, Norwegian Dream and Norwegian Majesty for Louis last spring at a price of $218 million and $162 million, respectively.

 

The disposal of Norwegian Dream was not completed on the scheduled completion date, September 29, as a result of Louis' failure to accept the delivery of Norwegian Dream according to the contract. The company is now contionuing to review its fleet portfolio in light of the prevailing circumstances and market conditions and may enter into appropriate arrangements including, inter alia, such as acquisition, disposal, deployment and/or charter arrangements to meet the business development and financial requirements of the group from time to time.

 

Louis plc announced that due to technical issues relating to the vessel, and following legal advice, has proceeded to the rescission of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the purchase of the Norwegian Dream. Louis plc, however, underlines that it has already concluded the purchase of the Norwegian Majesty, which was chartered back to the sellers Star Cruises Ltd until December 1st 2009. Louis plc will continue implementing its fleet renewal program, with the pursuit of alternative solutions.

 

Whilst the Dream would be an improvement on the current portfolio of Thomson ships I much prefer the ex-Celebrity ship such as the Island Star in terms of external apperance and inside layout.

 

If Island Cruises was terminated, I can't help thinking a RCCI link continuation would be a good thing.

[davecttr]

Island Cruises is terminated and TUI is left with the Island Escape as the Star is going to Pullmantur. Apparently Island will be 'absorbed' by Thomson so the question is, do Thomsons even want the Escape or will it be forced on them.