Cruise line is bankrupt after terrorist attacks

By RHODA AMON
NEWSDAY
The first seagoing casualty of the terrorist attacks, Renaissance Cruises has ceased operations and filed for bankruptcy, disembarking passengers and crew at far-flung ports.
Ship passengers, with their vacations cut short, were en route home by air charter from Rome, Dover, England and Papeete in the South Pacific, according to latest information from American Express. Customers with future reservations were advised by the cruise company to see their credit card companies or travel agents for refund information.
Stranded passengers can file claims for partial credit to cover the uncompleted portion of their trip. "We're assessing each member's claim," Fish said. She advised member passengers to immediately contact their travel agent or "the 1-800 number on the back of your card so we can start processing claims."
No recovery: Renaissance reportedly abandoned plans for obtaining additional financing after the attacks put a damper on the cruise industry.
Renaissance operated eight ships in Mediterranean and South Pacific cruises.