Carnival Splendor to the rescue of Aussies and Kiwis left stranded in Vanuatu

Carnival Splendor to the rescue of Aussies and Kiwis left stranded in Vanuatu
Edited by Travel Weekly


    Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor has come to the aid of a group left stranded in Vanuatu, following the collapse of Air Vanuatu.

    The group, eight Australians and one New Zealander, were visiting the island of Santo when Air Vanuatu cancelled all flights, leaving them without a way home.

    Carnival Cruise Line responded by offering to bring the group home on board Carnival Splendor, allowing them to return safely to Sydney.

    The group boarded Carnival Splendor this morning (23 May) and will enjoy a day in Vila before a relaxing four-night sail on the way back.

    “Helping these people get home safely reflects our commitment to community support and humanitarian aid. We are so pleased to provide this group a safe and enjoyable return home,” Carnival Cruise Line Australia vice president Kara Glamore said.

    Carnival Cruise Line also thanked the Vanuatu Tourism Board and the people of Santo for their assistance.

    Carnival Splendor will return to its homeport in Sydney on 28 May, completing what has turned out to be a serendipitous journey for the group.

    The rescue brings the total number Australian and New Zealand citizens who have been stranded due to the airline’s collapse and safely returned home on Carnival Australia ships to 29.

    P&O also came to the rescue of stranded passengers in the region after the ship picked up of a group of young Australian Rotary volunteers who were also stuck in Vanuatu.

    P&O rescues Rotary volunteers after collapse of Air Vanuatu

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