MSC Bellissima, which set sail from Keelung Port on Wednesday, December 4th, for a 5-day voyage, encountered an engine failure that prevented her departure from Naha (Okinawa). This incident has left ~1880 Taiwanese passengers stranded.
MSC Bellissima's itinerary included stops in Miyako, Naha, and Ishigaki Island.
In response to the disruption, MSC arranged charter flights on Sunday, December 8th, to repatriate passengers to Taiwan. Additionally, passengers opting to arrange their own return travel were offered reimbursement of up to NT$12,380 (~US$400) for transportation expenses incurred outside Japan.
MSC extended compensation to affected travelers, offering a full refund of the cruise fare paid and discount vouchers for future travel. Guests in premium-class cabins will receive vouchers covering 50% of future cruise fares, while economy-class passengers will receive NT$2,320 vouchers, valid for use on any voyage with MSC through December 31st, 2025.
The engine issues have also disrupted the plans of ~2100 passengers scheduled to embark in Keelung on Sunday. With repairs underway, the liner is not expected to begin her return journey to Keelung until Tuesday, December 10th.
While the majority of passengers were informed in advance about the canceled itinerary, a small number arrived at Keelung unaware of the situation. These passengers were greeted and assisted by cruise personnel on-site.
MSC continues to address the inconvenience caused by the incident, ensuring both current and prospective passengers are supported during this period.
For more MSC Bellissima incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.