Hebridean International Cruises in administration

James Thornton, 17 April 2009

Ernst & Young sells Hebridean Spirit while Princess continues to sail

Scottish cruise specialist Hebridean International has been placed in administration and one of its two main vessels sold on.

Ernst & Young LLP are handling the administration of Hebridean International Cruises Limited and Leisure and Marine Holdings Limited.

A statement from the company confirmed that while the Hebridean Princess ship continues to sail, the Hebridean Spirit vessel has been sold.

"The administrators recognise the value of the Princess business and have taken steps to secure funding to continue its sailing schedule as planned. The Princess is therefore continuing to trade whilst we pursue a sale of the business as a going concern," the statement reads.

Despite an earlier statement to the contrary, Ernst & Young will not be offering refunds for those who booked for the Hebridean Spirit. Those affected are being instructed to contact ATOL or, where relevant, travel insurance and credit card policies.

"We regret to advise that the Joint Administrators are not in a position to refund any customers in respect of the cancelled Hebridean Spirit cruises," the administrator confirmed in the statement.