After saying plans to close down its cruise enterprise in November, Venus Cruise accomplished its last earlier this month.
“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the customers who have boarded the cruise since our launch and to all those who have supported and cooperated with the cruise operations,” the corporate mentioned in a press release printed on its web site.
Founded in 1989, the normal Japanese cruise line final operated the Pacific Venus, a purpose-built ship that debuted in 1998.
The 696-guest vessel accomplished the model’s farewell cruise on Jan. 4, in Kobe. Celebrating the arrival of 2023, the eight-night voyage began on the identical port on Dec. 27 and included a go to to Okinawa.
“After announcing the end of our cruise ship business, many customers boarded our ship. In addition, we received many encouraging phone calls, letters, and emails, which served as encouragement to all the crew and employees until the end. Thank you very much again,” Venus Cruise added.
In addition to thanking journey businesses, companions and different enterprise associates, the corporate talked about the COVID-19 pandemic in its assertion, saying it created a “difficult environment” for cruise operations.
“We sincerely hope that it will come to an end soon and that many customers will be able to enjoy cruising again,” it mentioned.
The firm hasn’t introduced plans for the way forward for its ship, which is now anchored close to the Port of Kobe.
Built on the Ishikawajima shipyard in Tokyo, the Pacific Venus is the latest of the present fleet of Japanese-flagged cruise ships, which additionally consists of the 1990-built Asuka II and the 1990-built Nippon Maru.
During its 33-year historical past, Venus Cruise operated a complete of three vessels. In addition to the Pacific Venus, the 1990-built Orient Venus and the 1974-built New Utopia additionally sailed for the model.