Disney Cancels Ship’s First 15 Cruises

Disney Cruise Line last week canceled 15 cruises of the new Disney Magic--its first cruise ship--blaming construction delays for forcing it to postpone the ship’s maiden voyage from March 12 to April 30, 1998. About 15,000 to 20,000 passengers are affected, Disney spokeswoman Amy Foley estimated. She said they may either re-book at a 25% discount or get a full refund.

The Disney announcement follows Holland America’s latest postponement of Rotterdam VI’s maiden voyage, from Oct. 30 to Nov. 11.

Both ships are being built at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Marghera, Italy, and Foley said the Rotterdam delay backed up work on the Disney Magic. She said she expects Disney to launch its second ship, Disney Wonder, on schedule in December 1998.