NOT QUITE READY Carnival cancels soft launch of Fathom

Posted on 04/15/2016 | About Dominican Republic

The soft launch of Carnival Corp’s new social impact Fathom brand has been postponed. The Adonia, which was scheduled to cruise to the Dominican Republic on April 11, was cancelled for not successfully completing routine tests.

According to a Coast Guard spokesperson, "The vessel had run into some issues; the main issues were that the fire screen doors, approximately 30 of them on one of the decks, were inoperable. 

“We're working with the cruise ship to make sure that this is taken care of before they can get underway." 

Fathom released a statement, "The ship arrived in Miami directly from dry dock and re-fit offshore and underwent rigorous operational tests with the US Coast Guard that took longer than expected. 

Unfortunately, the company has learned additional testing will be required and as a result must cancel the soft-launch sailing." Kurt Kroemer, vice president of operations at Fathom Travel told passengers gathered in Miami, 

"We are not going to go on the sailing. We cannot make it work." Kroemer has said the company will cover all expenses that passengers have incurred due to the cancellation, including airline change fees, and out-of-pocket expenses for taxi or shuttle fees to airports. 

He also said Fathom would refund the full cost of the cruise and the full cost of airfare in and out of Miami. Fathom intends to provide a future cruise credit to passengers for the amount paid for the cruise, and that figure "might get enhanced." 

The original launch date was intended for April 10, but was delayed for one day upon which passengers received complimentary accommodations and meals, as well as local excursions, during their extended stay in Miami. 

The company is being credited with the ease of which disappointed cruisers have been able to change itineraries at the last minute. The first sailing to Dominican Republic is now scheduled for April 17, preceding the historic sailing to Cuba on May 1.