Working Conditions Aboard the Amera

On February 25, 2023, the cruise ship 'Amera' officially resumed operations and departed from Las Palmas, marking the end of a two-month hiatus for a significant refurbishment and modernization effort. After an extensive stay at a shipyard in Gdansk, the vessel welcomed passengers from the 'Celestyal Journey', which was chartered to Phoenix Reisen. Following the initial delays in drydocking, 'Celestyal Cruises' stepped in to cover part of 'Amera's' 2023-24 World Cruise, initially planned for a December departure. The latest itinerary now focuses on South America, diverting from the original route due to geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea, which are crucial for the planned voyage. The vessel will explore numerous South American destinations and the Atlantic Ocean, including stops at Mindelo and Praia in Cape Verde, as well as Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. In addition, 'Amera' is scheduled to visit Chile and navigate around Cape Horn before rejoining its original path in Peru come mid-April. As per its original World Cruise itinerary, the ship will continue on to several ports in South America, the Caribbean, North America, and Northern Europe, culminating in Germany by mid-May. Following the completion of its world cruise, 'Amera' plans to operate from Bremerhaven. The recent drydock was a transformative phase for the 834-guest ship, incorporating a comprehensive modernization that featured engine replacements, enhanced electrical systems, updated propellers, and machinery improvements. Additionally, upgrades to passenger accommodation included bathroom renovations, new carpeting, and refreshed upholstery, ensuring a luxurious experience for all guests on board.

The 'Amera,' a renowned cruise ship, has successfully departed the Remontowa shipyard in Gdansk on February 9, 2024, following an extensive refurbishment period. After a thorough series of trials conducted in the Baltic Sea, which continued until February 13, the ship underwent rigorous assessments to ensure compliance with the classification society, thanks to significant upgrades. Over the past four months, the vessel has been equipped with state-of-the-art engines, new propellers, enhanced bow thrusters, and a reliable shore connection. However, the delivery of critical components led to a notable delay in the vessel's readiness. The 'Amera' made its way to the Ostsee Quay in Kiel, arriving just after 9 a.m. on February 13 to conduct an operational stop, where it will refuel and house its crew. Cruise operations are set to commence on February 24 in Gran Canaria. The ship will depart Kiel again on February 15 at 10 p.m., navigating the Kiel Canal en route to its final destination. During this voyage, preparations will be made for the passengers who are eagerly awaiting their cruise experience. In Las Palmas, the 'Amera' is expected to initiate its cruise operations coinciding with the complimentary ship 'Celestyal Journey,' which has been chartered by Phoenix Reisen due to the extended period the 'Amera' spent in dry dock. The much-anticipated ship exchange is slated for February 24.

A round-the-world voyage spanning 143 days with Phoenix Travels has been unexpectedly curtailed, concluding in the Seychelles. The cruise ship 'Amera', designated for this ambitious journey, remains docked at the Remontowa shipyard in Gdansk due to supply chain complications that have delayed necessary components. Originally scheduled to embark in December, the 'Amera' is now projected for delivery on February 10, 2024. Meanwhile, the alternative vessel 'Celestyal Journey', chartered from Greek operator Celestyal Cruises, facilitated the initial leg of the trip from Genoa to Cape Town and onto the Seychelles. Unfortunately, as 'Celestyal Journey' is slated for Mediterranean voyages commencing this spring, Phoenix is unable to prolong the charter agreement, necessitating the return of the ship. Phoenix has announced that the current cruise segment will officially wrap up in Victoria, Seychelles, on February 2, 2024. While there’s hope to resume the world tour from Gran Canaria aboard the 'Amera' on a modified itinerary, Phoenix is actively working on providing guests with alternative options in the interim. This turn of events highlights the ongoing challenges facing the maritime travel industry, especially in the wake of global supply disruption.