April 5, 2005 – A familiar sight on the Virgin Islands cruise ship scene has been sold and will depart the market in June. In a sudden move, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises' (RSSC) Radisson Diamond has been sold. The news about the 350-passenger ship was revealed in a cruise industry publication in mid-March.
"Cruise Reviews and Notes" reported that the news was not entirely surprising as "the cruise line had made it clear that it was not interested in acquiring the ship."
The newsletter said the ship was never owned by RSSC but instead was chartered from Finnish investors.
The newsletter said what was surprising was the timing of the deal.
"RSSC executives had requested to continue operating the ship at least through its well booked summer season in Europe." Instead, the ship will wind up its tenure with RSSC following a Venice to Athens seven-night sailing on May 28.
The ship is currently positioned in the Caribbean with a Wednesday to Monday San Juan based itinerary. Stops include: St. Thomas, Virgin Gorda, St. Barts and St. Maarten.
Raddison Diamond will call on St. Thomas for the last time April 23.
The Raddison Diamond, which is the world's largest twin-hulled vessel, will begin a new life as a Hong Kong-based luxury casino vessel.