TAYSIDE holidaymakers were among those left disappointed by the last-minute cancellation of a luxury Mediterranean cruise yesterday.

Almost 1500 passengers, who were scheduled to sail from Palma, Majorca, today were forced to cancel their holiday on the Island Star due to essential repairs on the vessel’s engines.

Tour operator Island Cruises only informed the 1489 customers of the cancellation the day before they were due to depart, resulting in some angry passengers being unable to make alternative arrangements for their holiday.

The Island Star liner had been forced to cut short its previous September 22 cruise because of related mechanical failure and the vessel has now been taken to a nearby port for further repairs.

Patrick Ryan, managing director of Island Cruises, said, “We deeply regret needing to take this decision, but the safety and comfort of our passengers must always come first.

“We will be offering our passengers a 100% cash refund and a 25% future cruise discount certificate to try to make up for this disappointment.”

Some Island Cruise holidaymakers are booked on a one-week resort holiday in Palma followed by the seven-day cruise on Island Star.

These will be offered a second week at the resort or a 50% refund on the cost of their holiday together with a 25% future cruise discount certificate for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise which can be taken by October 2009.

All disappointed passengers are in the process of being contacted, but an information helpline is available for them on 0844 800 3131.