Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ parent firm Global Maritime Group yesterday announced the full acquisition of MS Astor from its insolvent German owner.
The sale sees the 620-passenger vessel become part of the CMV fleet, with a new long-term deal in place securing the long term charter commitments for the ship.
It comes three days after Astor arrived in Fremantle for its second summer season operating cruises from the WA port.
Last month, the vessel’s former German owners Premicon Hochseeschiff GmbH & Co. KG declared insolvency, temporarily casting a cloud over the ongoing operations of the ship, which was soon cleared up by CMV Australia.
Cruise & Maritime Voyages ceo Christian Verhounig said MS Astor had a fine pedigree and provided an important small ship premium option within the firm’s portfolio.
“This acquisition shows our strong commitment not only to the UK market, but also to our well established Australian and German operation,” he said.
Upon completion of its current local season, Astor will return to London for the northern summer.