A stranded Australian couple on an African island shared their harrowing experience after being left behind by a Norwegian Cruise Lines ship. Doug and Violeta Sanders described it as the “worst experience of our lives.” Their troubles began when a private tour they took during a stop on the island of São Tomé ran late, preventing them from reboarding the Norwegian Dawn.
Violeta recounted the challenges they faced in a foreign country where they couldn’t communicate due to the language barrier, saying, “We have no money, our credit cards aren’t accepted.” The couple, along with six other passengers, watched as the cruise ship sailed away without them, leaving them stranded.
Fortunately, the stranded passengers received assistance from the US Embassy in Angola and managed to board a flight to Gambia in hopes of rejoining the ship in Banjul. However, due to low tide, the ship had to move on to Senegal, further prolonging the passengers’ ordeal.
A spokesperson from Norwegian Cruise Line clarified that the passengers were on a private tour not organized by the company. While expressing sympathy for the stranded passengers, the spokesperson emphasized the ship’s obligation to adhere to a strict departure schedule.
Despite the challenges, the passengers persevered in their efforts to reunite with the cruise ship. Americans Jill and Jay Campbell, among those stranded, navigated through multiple countries within a tight timeframe to finally rejoin the ship in Dakar, Senegal.
Legal expert James Diamond highlighted the cruise ship’s right to depart once the final call has been made, citing logistical and operational considerations. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to set schedules when participating in cruise excursions.