TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Consumers' Foundation (消費者文教基金會), a prominent consumer advocacy group, lambasted Costa Cruises Monday (April 14) for what it deemed an "irresponsible" compensation offer of merely US$50 to passengers affected by a significant mechanical failure. The cruise line had invoked force majeure to limit its liability after a voyage disruption. Foundation officials demanded greater transparency and the implementation of equitable compensation protocols.
The incident began when the Costa Serena cruise ship sailed from Taiwan's northern Keelung Port (基隆港) last Tuesday on what was scheduled as a scenic voyage to Japan. Mechanical problems intervened, compelling the vessel to abandon its planned itinerary and return to Keelung by Saturday morning. According to company statements, the ship had been stranded in Naha (那覇市), Okinawa for repairs, forcing the cancellation of its Ishigaki Island (石垣島) stop and extending the journey by a full day.
The cruise company's compensation package included a US$50 cash payment to each affected passenger, service fee waivers, and a US$100 credit voucher valid for future bookings through the end of 2026. Consumer advocates deemed this restitution insufficient, contrasting it with the comprehensive approach taken by competitor MSC Bellissima during a similar incident last December, when passengers received complete refunds and reimbursement for travel expenses. The foundation called for more timely passenger communications and greater operational transparency from Costa. ★