Angry passengers left high and dry after Star Cruises cancels Hong Kong sailing
South China Morning Post
by Harvey KongFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Star Cruises canceled a two-night cruise departing from Hong Kong on February 13 due to an "unforeseen technical issue," leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui. The cancellation occurred after passengers had waited hours to board, with some expressing frustration over the lack of communication and support. Star Cruises issued a statement apologizing for the inconvenience and offered affected travelers the option to reschedule their cruise or receive a full refund. However, the company did not provide specifics about the technical issue or when it was identified.
Passengers began gathering at the terminal as early as 5:20 PM, with social media posts showing long queues and staff distributing water to those waiting. By 9:20 PM, many were still stuck at the boarding area, highlighting the growing frustration among travelers. The situation raised questions about the cruise line's preparedness and ability to handle emergencies effectively.
This incident reflects broader concerns in the travel industry regarding safety protocols and customer service during unexpected disruptions. For readers interested in global travel news or Asia-based developments, this story underscores the importance of transparency and contingency planning for companies operating in the tourism sector. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by passengers when technical issues arise, potentially impacting their travel plans and overall experience.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/13/2026