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Bill of York PA (07/13/08)
We joined Windjammer Barefoot Cruises Salt-It-Away Savings Book program after our first cruise on Legacy out of St. Thomas USVI/BVI week of Jan 18, 2004. It was a great way to save in advance for our next cruise. We would send a monthly check along with our coupon and account number. We sailed for two weeks on Legacy Jan 16-28, 2005.
We continued to Salt-It-Away by now into our third Savings Book always running a credit balance. We sailed for one week on Legacy Jan 22, 2006. We were told the new location for Legacy was going to be Costa Rica instead of USVI/BVI by Captain John.
We continued to send our monthly payments now into the fourth Savings Book with a savings balance of $3700.00. We were emailed through our CyberSailor Newsletter about Legacy now in Costa Rica so we booked by phone as normal Nov 19, 2007 calling 1-800 and spoke with John. We booked week of Feb 9-16, 2008. Our cost of $1299.00 each total $2598.00 was pre-paid by our Salt-It-Away Savings account leaving a savings balance of $1102.00. The only thing different was John informed us we would have to book and pay for our own airfare and any pre-post hotel nights.
We paid our airfare by credit card and was in the process of researching hotels and land tours when we received an email from Joseph our cruise was cancelled! We were instructed to Fax to request a refund or to rebook. We chose to request a refund and to close our Salt-It-Away Savings account and receive our $3700.00 cash savings refunded in full.
We faxed a second request Feb 16, 2008 to Joey and/or Danny and/or bookkeeper accountant Windjammer Barefoot Cruises. We have not recieved our $3700.00. We called the airlines to cancel our tickets and was charged $100.00 each cancellation fees. We have one year to use the airline tickets. Meanwhile we have emailed Joseph several times to no avail. Today's date is July 13, 2008 and we would like to know what legal action is available to us (if any) with ConsumerAffairs.com Thank you,
Cash savings $3700.00 which took almost two years to save. Airfare cancellation fees of $200.00 which will be charged to us when we rebook our flights. Total $3900.00.
Steven of Audubon PA (07/11/08)
My wife and I both purchased Sail 5 memberships when they first were offered. We tried to register for a cruise in December 2007. We were informed that Windjammer cruises were not sailing at that time. No indication was provided on when cruises schedules would be available.
My wife has recently retired and I am scheduled for retirement in November 2008. We sure woul like to take those 5 cruises or obtain our $5,000 back.
David of Brent AL (06/30/08)
I bought a cruise in November 2006 by Master Card Credit card for my son as a wedding present. I spent $2400 for a $3000 certificate. He has not taken the cruise yet and my latest information is that Windjammer is no longer in business.
I have tried to reach them by phone but the numbers are disconnected. I've tried the website but it is not actively responding. I am afraid we are out $2400 unless there is some recourse to getting this by some means.
Priscilla of Floyd NM (06/20/08)
I bought 5 cruises for $2500, and as I understand it, the company was already in trouble when they sold me that. Would be nice to get the money back or I'd settle for one cruise! Just add me to the LENGTHY list of unhappy customers!
Richard of Portland CT (06/08/08)
Purchased Time share for Association de la Mer. This was suppose to allow for me and my wife to sail for 10 weeks over 10 years. After we booked a 2 week cruise in Dec. 2007 on the Legacy and Polynesia ships, we discovered that these cruises were cancelled. At this point we have 4 more weeks of cruises in our time share that have not been allowed by Windjammer.
Having to rearrange our 2007 vacation plans cost us substantially more than we had planned. My greater concern however, is for the $7000 we are still due by Windjammer.
Graham of Seneca SC (06/06/08)
We bought a 5-year timeshare from Windjammer on the SV Le Mer in 2006. Repeated calls as to inquiries go unanswered and there is no information forthcoming from the company. We feel we have been mislead and there seem to be some serious ethical and fraud violations based on the munber of complaints.
We have lost about $9,000 in timeshare value as we cannot even apply it to another of their vessels because they appear to be out of business. Won't some enterprising lawyer consider filing a class-action lawsuit on behalf of defrauded time-share owners of Le Mer?
We seem to have no hope of recovering our hard-earned money.
Marc of Gordon TX (06/06/08)
My wife and I purchased a timeshare on De Le Mer, never took a cruise, never saw the ship. Several calls with Danny Walsh and other employees showed we were getting close to getting our investment back for a ship which never sailed.
After reading of the troubles they were in we hoped we would be one of the few to get are money back. As quickly as they took are money they were gone! We read lawyer's blogs with the promise of a solution but do we EVER see a phone number, address, fax or E-mail to contact. Is there anybody out there?
Linda of Lexington, SC (05/26/08)
In March 2004 my husband and I purchased a 10 sail time share for the Le Mer, week 6 cabin 622, for $17,745. We did not take any other cruises against the time share.
My husband passed away this last February and I am in great need for a refund of this money. All I have to live on is my state retirement. I have attempted to contact Windjammer many times, but to no avail.
Terry of Las Vegas NM (05/24/08)
We booked passage for a Windjammer Barefoot vacation, specifically the Sept. 30, 2007, sailing on the Yankee Clipper in the Grenadines. Hours before our departure from home we received an e-mail message advising us of the sailing's cancellation. We have had no further contact from Windjammer, but were told by one of its sales agents, with whom we initiated contact in October, that we were to receive a refund.
Thus far we have neither heard nor seen anything from the company. We feel fortunate that we actually learned of the cancellation prior to our leaving home, but we are out the cost of the sailing and the airline tickets as well as various miscellaneous expenditures made for a trip anticipated, but never taken, to the Caribbean.
Loss of cost of booking Loss of cost of airline tickets Miscellaneous expenses associated with the trip
Jane of Ballwin, MO (05/14/08)
In September, 2004, I purchased a timeshare on the LaMer costing me $8,755. Now at age 51, I'm devastated to learn that my vacation investment is worthless. I sailed on Fantome in the 70's and was hooked on Windjammer sailing many more times...one time taking my kids. I learned to scuba at age 40 and had hoped that Windjammer would play a part in my happy retirement.
I'm a single mom with three teenagers, the oldest a freshman in college and I'm ANGRY at the Burke's for stealing my hard-earned cash. I had tried repeatedly to get the status of the LaMer and when it would sail to no avail. No correspondence from Windjammer, the time share company, NO ONE.
Barbara of Gold Canyon AZ (05/12/08)
My husband and I are two of many Association De La Mer timeshare owners trying to figure out how to get our money back or at least get on a list of creditors who need to be paid. Waiting for La Mer to be built, we used three weeks of our timeshare cruises on Windjammer ships other than the promised La Mer, the last trip in the summer of 2007. We've heard horror stories about the Mandalay being stuck in Colon, Panama and being stripped by vandals.
We used three weeks of our timeshare on Windjammer cruises on ships other than the promised La Mer. We are out approximately $11,0000.
Laura of Bristow VA (05/06/08)
Purchases ticket for a cruise supposively saily 1/5/08 on 8/13/07 in the amount of $1520. Cruise never went, refund never came, no communication can be had from Windjammer since with the exception of a certified letter signed by them.
We are down $1,520. We had to make alternative plans in Costa Rica as soon as we found out they were not going to provide the service we purchases.
Carole of Sea Cliff, NY (04/29/08)
I have time share with this cruises line and I think they have gone out of business
Helen of Junction City, OR (04/27/08)
In March 07 we made arrangements for a cruise with Windjammer. We paid $700.00 down for a trip to start April 20 2008.
In December 07 we learned that they were not sailing any more. Calls to them were not answered and we would like our money back. We paid with our Discover Card and they will not reimburse our money. Our friends paid with Visa and Visa has credited their account with the money. I would like to get at least some of my money returned.
Jackie of Longwood FL (04/27/08)
I have been in the WJ Salt-it Away savings program for several years. They have taken a total of $3,350 of my money.
My Jan & Feb payments were returned to me return to sender, forward unknown. No one answers the phone, there doesn't seem to be any help available for getting my money back.
Apparently, according to internet reports, they were in finanacial trouble... and, yet they still continued to take peoples money, knowing that they weren't going to sail anymore. Any help out there????
Robert of Springfield OR (04/23/08)
Back in 2006 Robert bought Sail 5 and in 2007 Kim bought a Sail 5 also. When we tried to book a cruise we got no response from Windjammer. Soon after that we learned about their financial problems. We have tried emailing and calling them to no avail.
Robert $2,500.00 Kim $2,500.00
Carl of Queen Creek AZ (04/21/08)
I am a time share owner on a ship that has never sailed. I was suppose to be able to sail on the other ships but since they have gone out of business. I would like to get my money back if possible but not sure how to do it.
I have lost $6255.00
James of Carle Place NY (04/08/08)
I belong to their Salt-It-Away program, where I send them payments to be used for a future cruise. I have sent them a total of $4,250, and have just recently received several of my payments back by mail 'return to sender'. I have ince found out that they have gone out of business. They do not answer the telephone.
I have now lost $4,250.
Dru of Hales Corners WI (04/04/08)
My husband and I invested $6000 for a cabin (time-share) on the La Mer for 5 cruises over 10 years. Windjammer returns no phone calls or emails. Other investors were offered alternate cruises on Windjammer vessels, but the cruises never materialized.
We really need our $6000 back.
Erika of Navarre FL (04/02/08)
I booked a cruise with windjammer on Jun 6, 2007 and paid a $500 deposit using my discover card. Windjammer cancelled the cruise and never refunded our deposit. Discover card denied our dispute and we are out $500. Does the Fair Credit Billing Act cover our situation? Services were never performed by Windjammer, therefore should I be liable for the charge?
Connie of Mineral VA (03/29/08)
We purchased an upgraded cabin on the La Mer years ago and a cruise on Yankee Clipper for this March 08. We lost insurance purchase (or did we?) for March cruise and of course the $17k for the 10 cruises on La Mer. Who do we contact for help on this? Should we retain an attorney in Florida>
$17K in lost monies not mention the stress on us, senior citizens who have sailed with Windjammer many many times.
John of Hemet CA (03/27/08)
We purchased 5 timeshares on the SV LaMer at a time when the owners of the windjammer Cruise Lines knew they were in financial distress, selling time shares to unsuspecting buyers never intending to provide the cruises. I believe they sold nearly 700 such timeshares at about $8,000.00 USD for a 5 cruise package. I believe that they are still today accepting money for cruises that their customers still believe they will receive. Windjammer has been impossible to contact and it has been impossible to get any law enforcement agency of the federal government or the State of Florida to act on this blatant fraud.
The children of the founder of Windjammer have defrauded their customers out of tens of millions of dollars and nobody in authority or law enforcement is doing squat! The immediate thing should be to obtain from the escrow companies involved a complete listing of those customers defrauded and see what the scale of this fraud is and you will find that it was done on a grand dnd deliberate scale.
Our economic loss was $8,010.00. I believe that there are nearly 700 other individuals that done the same thing.
Nancy of Appleton WI (03/27/08)
I purchased a ten cruise timeshare on the la Mer on 15 June, 2005. I was told at the time that the la Mer was still being retrofitted and wouldn't be sailing as a cruise ship until 2005. In 2005, when the vessel should have been ready to sail, I received a four page letter detailing why the vessel wasn't ready on schedule. The letter promised further updates, which never arrived.
Now after paying over $10,250 for now worthless paper, I learn; not from them, that the company is defunct. What are my options? At this point what can be done? Any information would be helpful and greatly appreciated. Thank-you
Allison of Pompano Beach FL (03/26/08)
Cruise line apparently folded without refunding our money or notifying us. We called today to make final arrangements for our cruise the first week in May but the phone numbers have been disconnected.
Luckily, we only lost $412 which is nothing compared to the other people who posted complaints on this web site, We had a $3000 voucher from friends but paid some insurance and other fees to Windjammer.
Lee of San Antonio TX (03/24/08)
Last contact in Aug 2007 when got a letter advising that their Timeshare ship, the LaMer, was not ready yet and if I was interested I could have a 2 for 1 cruise on one of their other ships. Not interested at teh time, but now looking at the last summer of 2008, and when try to contact them, they have disappeared. I got in on their timeshare program when they visited San Antonio in 2004 after being on one of their Caribbean cruises, and since then was offered and had to use 2 oc 5 LaMer cruises to take a single cruise on another one of their ships because of delays in launching the LaMer, and now it appers my 3 remaining cruises for 2 on the LaMer may be lost totally.
Other than disappointment in hoping to do something thta seemed to be better than what had already experienced with Winjammer, can say any physical or emotional damage, but economic loss would probably be $5K plus as have no way to determine value of lost 3 sailings.
Deborah of Steubenville OH (03/23/08)
We purchased 2 cabins in the new Discovery Le Mar. We have been trying for 2 years to reach anyone about this. Do you know who I can contact?
We are out $9,000.00.
Susan of Seattle WA (03/17/08)
In December 2003, I bought a Windjammer timeshare on LaMer for 10 years of cruises. Believing in the organization, I was surprised not to hear any progress reports for a long time. When I finally got a hold of Alice over two years ago, I was told to expect an update soon. I never heard from them again.
My investment of $12,500 appears to be lost at this time.
G. of Lansing MI (03/07/08)
I purchased the Sail 5 program from WBC in 2005. When I tried to reach them to inquire about taking my first cruise, I was unable to access the WBC website. The 1-800 number was disconnected and the local number in Miami FL had been disconnected.
I paid $2,500 for the SAIL 5 program where I could sail for 5 weeks in a 5 year period. I am out 2,500 dollars.
Robert of Glendale AZ (02/22/08)
I have sailed with Windjammer since 1996. I've sailed on ten previous cruises. This cruise was special; it was in the planning for two years. I was celebrating my 45th BD. I book the cruise In Fed. 2007, and three days before I was to leave for Costa Rica to sail on the Legacy I was sent an e-mail saying the cruise was canceled. I purchased air, hotel, cruise and insurance through Windjammer. I'm out $3000.00. Windjammer gave me a really special BD present.
I'm out $3000.00 that I spent with Windjammer Barefoot cruises. I repurchased air and lodging and activities to Costa Rica. I wasn't able to stay where I wanted to or do the activities I wanted to do because of the extremely short cancellation notice. In addition, I need the $3000.00 back asap. It is and has been very stressful; I'm still paying for a trip I never took.
James of Murrysville PA (02/12/08)
I purchased a cruise to leave January 5, 2008. I sent a deposit of $500 dollars in May of 2007. Unaware of the problems they were having, I sent a check for the remaining balance of the cruise in November of 2007. By this time they were fully aware of the financial difficulty and the likelihood of the cruise ever happening was next to none. Needless to say, the company cashed the check and was never to be heard from again. I became aware of the problem through a little section of their website that I stumbled on in the press release section of the website which was still functioning in December of 2007.
I called the company and at this time they were still answering the phone, and they told me they would have a different boat running and being that I bought this cruise as an anniversary gift for my 20th, and it was to be our first cruise, I decided to switch to the different boat. I didn't know this boat was not going to run either until 2 days before Christmas. Once again, I found this out in the press release section. I immediately called the company and the phones were always busy, after awhile they were all disconnected. I tried the fax number and sent my request for a refund like the press release said, but no response. This company took our money with no intention of providing a cruise or they would have sent some type of documentation long before the first ship wasn't sailing. They not only took our money, they stole it. If I had not been searching the internet, I would have been standing in a foreign country with no where to go. I never did hear from the company in any respect that this cruise could be canceled or when it was canceled. Upon doing research, I have found that this has been happening for a long time and they have been taking money from people and not providing the service. I have contacted the Better Business Bureau, and the Florida Dept. of Agriculture and I really don't think they will respond to any mailings at this point.
I had to find something to do that week since I would lose the airfare. I had to pay to rebook into resorts in Tortola since that was where the boat was to sail from. I had to book a resort in St. Maarten since that is where the boat was to dock and the flight out was there. I had to spend an extra $3600.00 in bookings, and I am out the $3281.00 I paid Windjammer.
Wade of Conover NC (02/10/08)
In 06 Aug. 1982, I paid $3,500.00 to become a Windjammer Lifetime Shipmate. The contract states that This fee includes cabin accommodations on a 6-day cruise each year, any ship, for the rest of your life (there will be a small fee for pre-cruise Stowaway night and your share of grub & grog, never to exceed $100.00). I have taken only one of these Windjammer Barefoot Lifetime Shipmate cruises. I do not know how many other Windjammer Lifetime Shipmates there are/were ... do you have any idea? I really like Windjammer's original vision of providing affordable vacations and preserving sailing ships. They have straying from this vision and treating their loyal customers very badly. With all the sad news about none of the Windjammer Barefoot Cruises ships sailing at present and their looming bankruptcy, the chances of me receiving any more of these promised cruises is not looking good. IF they do reorganize, I do hope that the new entity will honor my Lifetime member benefits. Please let me know if there is a class action or other remedies I can persue.
Patricia of Raleigh NC (01/29/08)
Windjammer Barefoot Cruises in 2005 approached us (as loyal previous Windjammer cruise consumers) about buying a timeshare interest in a proposed new luxury sailing vessel called La Mer. We and a number of others bit--for amounts ranging (in our case) from upwards of $13,000. to (the deluxe accommodations that others purchased) upwards of $19,000, for 10 or more 'berths' (that is a 2 person cabin) to be used over the next 10 years. Three years later and after a number of lies and other misinformation from Windjammer, the La Mer has been totally abandoned from ever being built, and the company itself appears to be facing bankruptcy such that their entire fleet of other sailing ships--which had been available to redeem our yearly 'timeshare' cruise interests while awaiting for the LaMer--are as of November '07 no longer sailing.
Efforts by myself and a number of others (LOTS of consumer complaints filed at consumeraffairs.com/travel/windjammer) to even get telephone calls or emails returned from Windjammer have gone unanswered by the company--much less any hope of any monetary refunds. Based on LaMer materials given to us at the time of purchase in '05, there were 75 berths up for sale and each offered over the 52 weeks of the year, at a minimum of $13,060.00 each. If all were sold, that's a total of $50 million dollars which has been largely squandered at this point by the company (which has now clearly abandoned intent to refit and sail the LaMer), and apparently is bankrupt or close enough to it that the rest of their fleet is also finished with sailing.
We spent $13,060. for a timeshare on a ship that was never built and is now unuseable on any of their other fleet, either- since it appears that Windjammer ceased sailing any of their vessels due to functional bankruptcy from Nov. 12, 2007 forward. We did use 3 of the 10 berths purchased before that happened, but the remaining 7 that we will not be able to redeem comes to a prorated loss of $9142.00. There may be as many as 3900 other consumers with similar or greater losses, depending on how many of the 'timeshares' were sold.
Robert of Kansas City KS (01/25/08)
My wife and I purchased a prepaid cruise timeshare for the S/V La Mer in 2004 for over $15,000. The only communication from Windjammer was that we could exercise our option to cruise on a different vessel. Now there is no communication from Windjammer. I have filed a complaint with the Florida Attorney General. Regrettably, I have not received any acknowledgment or response from the AG either.
Tom of Meredith NH (01/14/08)
I am a Windjammer La Mer time share puchaser. Having paid about 15K for 10 cruises, I'm scheduled to cruise Feb 2 out of Costa Rica. I have been unable to confirm my trip despite several attempts by various means to reach someone at Windjammer. I already paid for my airline tickets- what should I do? Does anyone know a good class action suit lawyer?
I'm out 15K plus other fees.
Henri of Scarborough OTHER (01/14/08)
We booked our cruise on the Mandalay Ship for the West Indies in September of 2007. As we were told the cabins were filling up and we could get a special offer, we paid up front entirely for the cruise, the flights, 3 days Hotel at the Admiral's Inn in Antiqua. They cancelled the sailing 3 weeks prior, saying we could reschedule another cruise to Costa Rica, but had to make our own flight arrangements. We thought about it, and declined the offer. We were told that we would receive a full refund ASAP. They were notified of our cancellation by phone, by letter, and another registered letter. I cannot get through the phone lines, no response. Emails are returned undelivered. I see that the ads are still online, they are still accepting bookings and payments, and I believe the ships are all landed, arrested, and are not sailing. They have had our money since September, it is now January 14, 2007. They owe us approximately $5,200.00. What recourse do we have at this point?
Approximately $5,200.00. Lost vacation, we rebooked another with of course additional cost. Much frustration and anxiety due to the run around from Windjammers Cruises. This made even more stressful with the fact that they are still accepting bookings and payments and cannot fulfil their obligations. No one is stopping them. Maybe I am naive, but when you owe this much money to customers, you sell your ships and complete your obligations. Those of us smaller companies would be required to complete restitution.
J of Clermont FL (01/04/08)
In April 2007, I booked a cruise for two on the Yankee Clipper which sailed out of Grenada in October 2007. In addition, through Windjammer, I purchased three nights' hotel stay (one night pre-cruise, two nights post-cruise). They offered a discount of $100 per person if I paid for the cruise in full (which I did). They also requested that I prepay for one night's hotel stay. In late September, I realized that I had not yet received my cruise documents. During a search to find WJ phone number, I discovered an article about their difficulties and the cancellation of a number of cruises. I phoned WJ home office in Miami and asked about my cruise documents. They stated that until I paid for the remaining 2 nights' hotel stay, they would not send the documents out. I asked if my cruise was being canceled, and the agent assured me that all cruises are back on schedule. I was skeptical. So here was my dilemma: not send them any more money--and just eat a loss for what I had paid for so far; or to send them the remaining dollars owed and eat an even bigger loss if the ship didn't sail? I rolled the dice and paid them the balance.
Not only did we not get the courtesy call from Windjammer advising us that the cruise had been canceled, but we flew down to Grenada and waited for a boat that was not even in the same country! Windjammer sent word (through a local travel agent that had rounded up all of the passengers) that the boat was detained in Trinidad, but that they would cover two nights' hotel stay to give passengers enough time to come up with an alternate plan. Thinking that WJ would just work out the two free nights' hotel stay with the resort, imagine my surprise to get a bill for the two nights from the hotel. According to the hotel, WJ would reimburse us for these nights. Very clever indeed. While I could dispute any credit card charges with WJ, how could I, in good conscience, dispute any charges directly to the hotel when they actually provided a service?
Not only was I out the cost of the cruise and airfare to get to Grenada, but also the three prepaid hotel nights. Additionally, because we spent the week in Grenada, we had to pay again for hotel stay, meals, etc (all things that would have been provided with the cruise). On a positive note: I did file a dispute with my credit card (Am Ex issued though B of A), and they did find in my favor. Overall, however, the time spent on the island for meals, hotel, etc. was more expensive than the cost of the cruise for two. And there was the disappointment of not being able to sail through the Spice Islands as planned.
Larry of Carson City NV (11/20/07)
My Wife and I made our first Windjammer cruise in 1992 aboard the Poly, along with 14 other friends most of which had sailed with Windjammer before, sence then we have made a Windjammer cruise every other year doing a two week or back to back cruise as one week just wasen't enough. We have always been with a large group of friends, as we were all Windjammer hooked.
Our next cruise was to be in April of 2008 a back to back onboard the Mandalay and Poly, as in the past there was going to be 8 of us on this trip, as main deck cabins fill up rapidly we all booked in April 2007 with a $1,000.00 deposit.
We first became aware of Windjammer's financial problems in August when a friend of ours showed us an article in the Wall Street Journal, which talked about Windjammer ships being siezed, crews not being payed etc. We attemted to call Windjammers Office in Miami several times but could never get ahold of anyone, Windjammers Web site was also none operable. As things at this point were looking very shakey we spoke with our credit card company and they suggested we cancel our cruise and request a full refund in writing, they told us that due to the lapse in time (more then 90 days) that was our best bet, if that didn't work they would do what they could but didn't give us much hope in retrieing our deposit.
We have since written several letters, but have recieved no response. I did however talk to a Windjammer Agent 3 weeks ago, and again canceled over the phone, I asked him when I could expect my deposit back, and he said he didn't know that he was leaving Thursday of that week because he had not been paid.
We had also booked Air which we had to cancel, and that cost us $200.00 cacellation fee and a year to use the remaining fare.
At this point things are not looking very good, and Windjammer doesn't seem to care to much about those loyal Jammers who over the years have spent millions sailing with them.
Thomas of Greenbrier AR (11/20/07)
I bought a time share on the new ship that never got built.
Brenda of Livingston MT (11/19/07)
On 3/18/07 I booked a Windjammer cruise for my husband and me on the Polynesia to sail 3/2/08. At that time I gave a $500.00 deposit on my American Express. On 8/6/07 I called and again used my American Express to pay the balance of $3,126.00. I know it probably seems foolish paying so far in advance, but we've been on several of their cruises and never had a problem. We had no idea they were having financial difficulties and just wanted to have it paid for and not worry about it. However, it's very obvious now that the Windjammer organization knew they would be unable to operate our cruise but took our money anyway. After learning through USA Today what was happening on 10/31/07, I called Windjammer to find out what was going on. I was told at that time I should not cancel as the agent I spoke with was fairly certain they would be sailing by March. After speaking with my husband that evening I called back on 11/1/07 and cancelled our trip as the agent verified that the cruise we had booked was definitely cancelled. I was told I would receive a complete refund, including the insurance I had paid for. I have called numerous times since then and cannot get a straight answer out of any of the many people who seem to be answering the calls as to when we can expect that refund. I contacted American Express and they refuse to dispute the charge or assist us in any way as it was over 60 days since the charge so we have no recourse through them. We have $2,200 worth of nonrefundable airline tickets that we have to use by April and need to have the money back from Windjammer in order to book another trip and not lose that as well.
We have $3,626 in Windjammer tickets and $2,200 worth of nonrefundable airline tickets that we are going to lose. Total of $5,826.
Suan of Long Beach NY (11/12/07)
Like everyone involved I have had no communication or response to complaints/questions from Windjammer, La Mer.
After being placed on hold for over 10 minutes Alice Sargent finally answered.
I was told that they stopped seling weeks on the La Mer over 1 year ago. Alice told me that all those who purchased on the ship La Mer had the option to use other ships. She then told me that as of today, 11/12/07 Windjammer does not have one ship from their entire fleet in operation! She also told me that the entire company is having problems. Well, like everone I specifically purchased a week for 10 years on the La Mer. I do not want to use another ship. (which of course is not even available to me if I wanted). When I point blank asked her if the company were filing for bankrupcy she told me I can not predict the future. Then told me to check back in one month!
In August of 2004 I purchased a cabin on the La Mer for the price of $15,855. I received my deed Sept. 21, 2004. almost 1 year later. After numerous calls and letters to Windjammer, they had no record of my purchasing a cabin. The escrow company sent my information to a totally different person in Long Beach, California, not NY. It wasn't until the MBNA credit company started default proceeding on my account that I was able to rectify the situation. I should have know from the mishandling of my account right from the very beginning that I was in for trouble. I was a happy customer with Winjammer. I suffered a loss on Sept 11, 2001 which prevented me from taking my original cruise. Winjammer stood by me and did everything to help during a very difficult time! However, I am appalled by the way they are treating customers now. People had faith in them and the company. And they have completely disregarded us. My image of them is shattered. My memories are now and will forever be tainted! This is a ton of money that I am out! The decision to purchase was not one that I made without careful consideration and planning. I am not a wealthy person. This money was spent with the hope that I would ensure a peaceful, fun filled, safe and memorable vacation with my family and friends for the next 10 years! I am heart broken! And I feel completely deceived by all of you at Winjammer.
Nancy & Bill of Lutz FL (10/31/07)
On November 20, 2004 we purchased a 10-year timeshare for a Lifestyle Nude cruise on the SV La Mer, stateroom 603 to sail the 13th week of the year starting 2006 costing $18,885.00. We have contacted Ms. Alice Sargent customer rep., Kathy Milkowski from the Escrow company, Barry Jones and Robert Schackner from Windjammer. NO ONE returns our emails or phone calls. We have told Ms. Sargent on NUMEROUS occasions, we want our money back, and she says she will take care of it but NEVER gets back to us. I see their Attorney Gary W. Pollack of Miami has stated on your web page that he has tried to contact anyone who has complained and tried to satisfy them. Funny, we have never heard from him.
We do not want another cruise time or ship. This is a lifestyle Nude cruise and no other ship offers this. I purchased 10 years on the LaMer, and they have not honored that. It seems simple to me. Give me my money back!
Deborah of Wilsonville OR (10/10/07)
My husband, Michael, and I bought timeshares in LaMer. The retrofitting of the boat has never been completed, and Windjammer has not communicated with us as to how we may use our investment. We want to have our money back, and are requesting it from Windjammer.
Due to the problems with the company, we are concerned that we may not get a good resolution to this. We just want the money back that we paid, since they never complied with their part of the agreement.
Judith of Newport PA (10/10/07)
On May 4, 2004 I purchased a 10-year Timeshare in Windjammer Barefoot Cruises newest ship the SV La Mer for $13,260. The Deed of Ownership states that it is Cabin Number 426 during time period number 27 dated 14th day of June 04. The S/V La Mer is now called the S/V Discoverer. The S/V La Mer was to be completed in 2005. It is now near the end of 2007. Alice Sargent does not answer emails, nor does she return telephone calls. Currently the Windjammer web site is shut down and no one ansswers the telephone. According to Doug of Huachuca City, AZ (03/23/07) the Discoverer is not in dry-dock. It is in the water at a deserted pier in Trindad along with the Flying Cloud and Amazing Grace which are barely floating. The Association De La Mer has taken the money of the timeshare owners. They have not used it for the reconstruction of the Discoverer. In addition, the Association De La Mer has been charging maintenance fees of $330 for a ship that is not sailing. I am one of many that feels that this is a scam and wants a refund of my money. It is my hope that an attorney will file a class action against the Association De La Mer (Windjammer Barefoot Cruises) to recover the money of the time share owners.
The economic damage is the loss of $13,260 plus a $330 maintenance fee.
John of Youngstown OH (10/02/07)
My wife and I are booked on a cruise on the S.V. Polynesia which was to leave St. Maarten BVI on November 18th. We understand from your website and others that this is unlikely to happen. The ship is stuck in Aruba with a crew that is having to be fed by the charity of former pasengers and the Red Cross. We paid Windjammer $1200.00 and are unable to speak to anyone via telphone or email about our trip and are very uncomfortable to say the least. This was to be our honeymoon trip and my wife booked this under her maiden name at the end of March to take advantage of the half-price rate. Her credit card holder, First Merritt Bank, claims that since it has been more than 120 days they will not help, but I am trying to get them to reverse the charges ASAP as it looks like Windjammer will do nothing and may go bankrupt. We may lose some more money when we cancel our flights if this becomes necessary. It seems we are not alone, and time is of the essence.
$1200.00 to Windjammer and possibly more depending on airline cancellation fees.
Chris & sheila of Scottsdale AZ (09/04/07)
On August 19th, we arrived at the airport only to be told, along with other passengers, that the crew was on strike and no one was allowed on the ship and which hotel would we like to go to. We spent the night at the Renaissance, which was very nice, seeing our ship in at the port only a few blocks away, but no one was allowed to go to the dock. One of the passengers had international telephone service, so called Miami and was told that an executive would be on a plane first thing in the morning to take care of the matter. He never arrived in the morning and then we were told he was coming in the afternoon, then the evening of course, he never showed up at all. Then we were told the company was being bought out and we would probably sail the next day; then we were told they had a generator problem and we waiting for a part, which of course, never showed up.
There were approximately 85 passengers that week and Id say 40 of them left and went home. 25 of us stayed on the ship and the others stayed at hotels as some had kids with them. One passenger came all the way from Germany with his wife to go diving in Bonaire and Curacao and was very disappointed not to see those islands -- it is unlikely any of us will have an opportunity to go there in the future.
Monday afternoon, when we checked out (with a new reservation for that night if we needed it), we called the Windjammer pickup service (which we had paid for) and were told they could not take us to the ship under the circumstances. So we called a cab and when we got to the ship, were told they were accepting passengers but the rooms were not made up, so we left our bags and went into town. The crew did their best to try and take care of us even though they had not been paid in over two months, but having sailed the Polynesia before, the ship was very run down and definitely needed a lot of repairs.
Each day we were told some story from the captain or crew which was not the same story we were given from Miami (one of the passengers had an international telephone and access of e-mail). Finally, by Wednesday, we knew were not sailing anywhere, so began making our own plans for activities in Aruba. At that point, we basically used the Polynesia as a home base for activities on Aruba.
Wednesday night we were told by the Captain that we would take a little sail on Thursday and the rest of the passengers showed up. There were also some other people from Aruba on the ship and I asked the woman if one of the crew was a family member; she told me they were guests of the Captain and then slipped and told me she was from Immigration and Customs and promptly terminated the conversation when she realized she had slipped. We basically sailed up the coast, turned around and sailed back and just drifted in front of the town where we were docked and redocked about 4 pm and the Customs people left.
Obviously, the Captain worked something out with them for us to get a little sailing experience, but it was obvious we were not allowed out of sight.
On Friday early evening (and I have a photo to prove it), Customs boarded the ship around dinner time and seized the ship. We heard from the crew that 3 other ships were seized in port and the Panama boat had no food as the vendors had not been paid in some time. One of the other passengers told us they saw Customs before they boarded, on the dock talking to the Captain, then the Captain had a meeting with his crew in the wheelhouse and it was after that, that Customs boarded the ship.
We are now in the process of trying to get reimbursed by either Windjammer or the travel insurance. Upon return, I spoke to the Windjammer Customer Service and we were told to submit our expenses and that we would be getting a letter of apology and a recruise certificate. We have received the recruise certificate, but are concerned that with new owners, will they honor that certificate. They seem to be blaming the crew and a maintenance problem and make no mention of the ship being seized. I don't know how long it will take to get reimbursed for hotel and meal expenses.
I also contacted our travel insurance (through Windjammer) and was told the first time that the insurance only covered us if we had to leave the ship for some reason. I told them that from what I read, the policy mentions Trip Delay due to a strike. I am presently arguing with them on this issue and have sent them backup material such as letters from Windjammer and the Captain where strike, labor issues and maintenance problems are mentioned.
Meantime, we are out 52,500 miles I had to use to get to Aruba and over $800 for one airline ticket. Windjammer knew Saturday the crew was on strike (and probably other problems they tried to keep hidden) and could have called us to cancel the trip, thus not spending the money and miles on air fare. And after reading other consumer complaints, it now comes to our attention that Windjammer knew on August 11th that ships' crews were out on strike and had plenty of time to notify all the passengers.
Margaret Barton of Alexandria VA (08/20/07)
Arrived for a cruise on the S/V Legacy on Saturday, August 11 and was told that the ship wouldn't sail because the crew had not been paid nor was there funding for fuel.
Had to make other arrangements for hotel accomodations, meals. Disappointing for the entire family, including our 13 year old daughter. We are seeking damages from the company.
Kathleen of San Diego CA (08/16/07)
Purchased passage on SV Legacy for 8/11/07-8/18/07 Costa Rica trip. After flying from Californa to Costa Rica, took 3 hr transfer bus to Legacy. When we arrived, we were told that crew had scattered a few hours earlier because they had not been paid for more than 3 months and that there was no gas in the ship. Money had not been wired from the Windjammer corporate office to pay for gas. We were told that at the earliest, gas would not be available until late Monday or,perhaps, Tuesday, or, perhaps, even later. In addition, it was required that they take the ship to foreign waters once every 7 days. If they failed to get gas and get to Panamanian waters, the Costa Rican government would seize the boat. It was unknown how they would get the crew to come back to sail the ship as there was no means of communication. The passengers were told that they were welcome to stay on the ship (no services) or leave. Leaving meant finding transportation back to San Jose at a cost of $120 per taxi cab. It was questionable whether passengers would be refunded any money even tho' the problems were caused by Windjammer's cash flow issues. Passengers were stranded with no means of communication in a foreign country.
Windjammer was unwilling to help.
I left the Legacy Sunday morning, as it was dark and rainy when we arrived late Saturday night. I spent $120 on a cab back to San Jose. Could not get a return flight back to California until Tuesday. Any sooner would have cost an additional $1100 in airfare. Instead, had to stay in a hotel near the airport for two nights so I only had an increase in airfare of $115. Since my return Tuesday, I have been unable to reach Joann Cuevas, the customer service manager for Windjammer. Her voice mailbox remains full. No other requests for a return phone call have been answered.
Windjammer knew that this was going on for the past three months. They could have notified me prior to leaving California. No excuse. Very, very poor customer service. Very poor business practices. Shame on you, Windjammer!
Patrick of Bixby OK (08/15/07)
I also saw Dan Schlossberg's May 22 article regarding Windjammer LaMer. Based on that article, it appeared that Windjammer was finally going to acknowledge people who have been complaining about their shabby handling of the whole LaMer timeshare fiasco. On May 30th I sent certified letters to Windjammer's Attorney Gary Pollock, LaMer CEO Paul Maskell and CFO Iris Mayaudon requesting a refund since I did not purchase the timeshare to take cruises on their existing ships. To date no one has replied.
I called Attorney Pollock a couple of times and he acknowledged that there were several customers who were due refunds, but that Windjammer had not yet advised how those refunds were to be processed. Since Windjammer has not approved any refunds, recently his office has been referring callers to Polly Burke at Windjammer. I've called her office several times, and her phone is never answered. I've left multiple voice mail messages requesting a return call, but no calls have been returned. (This is a typical Windjammer tactic: Hide behind the voice mail system and don't return calls.) When I tried to call today, the system advised that her voice mailbox is full and messages cannot be left.
As John of Lynn MA mentions, Windjammer personnel advise they are trying to learn about timeshares. The few times I've been able to talk to anyone, I've been advised the same - for 3 years now!
The ship was not available in 2005 as stated in the contract. No one at Windjammer can tell us when it is targeted to be available, or will even talk to timeshare owners. My money has been in Windjammer's pockets for almost three years, and a financial accounting of the timeshare monies (as stated in their contract)has never been provided.
John of Lynn MA (08/08/07)
This site had published an article on May 22 2007 with the attorney for Windjammer, Gary Pollack, stating that individuals investing in the timeshare La Mer would receive their refunds. The article was written by Dan Schlossberg.
My father invested $32,700 and his monies were removed from escrow on 2/18/05 and sent to Beach Bank in Miami. His funds, as stated in his contract with Windjammer, were not to be released until his goods (his timeshare) were given to him.
The boat on which he purchased the timeshare is still not ready and my father is seeking a refund. We contacted Atty. Gary Pollack as advised in the article written on May 22, 2007 by Dan Schlossberg. We are told that Atty Pollack is no longer handling the timeshares refunds. We are attempting to work with Windjammer but are getting nowhere. Noone can tell us where my father's funds are. We are being told that they (Windjammer) are trying to learn about timeshares.
In the meantime, Windjammer still holds over $32,000 of my father's monies.
Timothy of Dexter MI (07/24/07)
On 5/17/07, I booked a family cruise for the week of 7/1 from Aruba. On 6/21 was notified that the cruise had been cancelled due to mechanical failure. WBC offered accomodations at a Villa in Aruba and vouchers for a free cruise in the future.
Upon arrival, we were told that we'd have to stay on the vessel in the shipyard - the Villas had been cancelled. The view of dumpsters & the shipyard, along with the smell of diesel fuel wasn't acceptable.
We arranged our own accomodations in Aruba and tried, in vain, to contact representatives at the corporate office. One week AFTER our non-cruise ended, Joanne Cuevas, the Customer Service Manager sent an email to me asking for receipts to begin the reimbursement process.
Since WBC hasn't provided any of the services that we had paid for, I've opted to dispute the charges via MasterCard and get a full refund.
From what I can extract from various message boards, the s/v Polynesia broke a drive shaft in early June. The company is contacting customers and cancelling cruises about 10 days prior to their sailing date.
I also found it very suspicious that the cruise was only 1/3 full, and most fares were booked at fire-sale rates. From what I remember from business classes, hotels need to operate at about 75% occupancy, just to break even. In my mind, WBC has made a business decision that it is more cost-effective to sit in port rather than to sale and lose money.
At best, I'll get all of the money I sent to Windjammer back via the MasterCard dispute process. This doesn't begin to compensate me and my family for the quality time lost (a week in Aruba isn't a week on a ship - that's why we booked the cruise).
The crew of the Polynesia began preparing the ship in the middle of the week, prior to our arrival in Aruba, based on instructions from their management in Miami. Had they contacted me at that time, I would have rescheduled our vacation.
A Kontor of Dover NH (06/13/07)
I too was deceived into a timeshare on La Mer. I paid nearly 19K for the top cabin (Burke's), which is not available on most of their other ships. I am resigned to use the other ships, but I did not spend all that money to be with college jocks or families.
I purchased week #8, which is clothing optional. Windjammer runs two such charters a year, however they will not allow me to use my timeshare on those, and they refuse to set aside a like week for us. I am spending $4000-6000/year for full fare resorts that have such a program, and I may not live long enough to see La Mer on line.
Gary Torrens of La Grange KY (05/30/07)
In January of 2004 we attended a sales promotion in Louisville, KY and as a result, purchased an admirals cabin on the LaMer for $16,000. We have been waiting for this ship to be completed and have not had any satisfaction as to when it will - if at all - be completed. This was a gift to me (Arlene) for my 65th birthday. Since I had taken 9 prior voyages on Windjammer ships, I thought this would be a perfect gift. The perfect gift has turned out to be a giant rip-off and a huge disappointment.
I do NOT want to take a voyage on any of the other ships. We purchased a time share on the La Mer. We signed a contract with Windjammer for a timeshare on the La Mer - not on any of the other vessels. If Windjammer doesn't intend to complete the reconstruction, we want our money back in full. We should get interest on the money since Windjammer certainly has had use of it for 3 years and 4 months.
Doug of Huachuca City AZ (03/23/07)
On a cruise in October 2006 on the Windjammer Polynesia, we started in Trinidad. I own shares on the to be La Mer (which is still emblazoned with the ship name Discoverer painted on her sides!!!). I decided I would take pictures of her tied alongside a Trinidad shipyard deserted pier (she is definitely NOT in dry-dock !!!) I was almost arrested by several burly Trinidad dock security guards as I got closer. I managed to get around them, and very close to the ship. It is in the water at a dock that obviously not been used for months or years, since there is no activity, but there is gravel, dirt piles, concrete, and debris covering any access to would-be ship construction areas. No construction has recently taken place on this ship, IF EVER !!! The Discoverer looks in comparable ill repair as the Flying Cloud and Amazing Grace which are barely floating nearby. The Flying Cloud and Amazing Grace look to be very sinkable in a substantial storm. And the Discoverer doesn't look much better. I have the pictures to prove it. The story has it that work is being done on the inside of the Discoverer to convert it to the La Mer. HOGWASH. There is no activity anywhere closely. And no evidence of any in the past !!! The owners of La Mer shares have been TAKEN for a ride, but no cruise.
Gary Hare of Dublin OH (03/15/07)
I did get a two for one exchange for my time on the LaMer. Iw was not easy and had to be approved by the board. Appears everything must be approved by the board and they are never around.
Totally disapointed in the Windjammer operation.
Jeff of Davie FL (03/08/07)
Based on years of seeing Windjammer's ads I booked a trip on their Legacy during December 2005. I anticipated a sailing experience like promised in all the pictures and descriptions. The reality is the Legacy never raises full sails and even if it did she's incapable of sailing without motor.
Catherine of Fallbrook CA (03/03/07)
In December 2006, I sent the following letter to Mr. Burke, which explains in detail what happened. To date, I have received no response...
On August 22, 2004 we purchased a cruise timeshare on the cruise ship La Mer with the understanding, based on information provided to us by individuals representing your company and as stated in the contract, that we would be able to cruise on the La Mer in Cabin Number 415 during our Time Period (week 22) in the Initial Cruise Year of 2006. As you know, we are unable to use the timeshare because the ship in not ready and there has been no information from Windjammer regarding when the ship will be completed and, therefore, when well be able to take possession? of the timeshare we purchased.
If it had been disclosed to us when we bought this timeshare that it would not actually be ours to enjoy for several years, we would not have purchased it. It was our expectation that La Mer would be completed by our initial cruise date and we would be sailing to Tahiti and the Greek Islands on La Mer. We just reserved space on another Windjammer cruise for next May. Similar to pouring salt on a wound, this would be the second time wed have to pay a maintenance? fee for a ship that isnt even built, let alone being maintained, so that we can take a cruise on a ship other than La Mer.
When we purchased the La Mer timeshare we received a one-year membership in Trading Places, a timeshare exchange club, which we were supposed to be able to use to exchange our La Mer week. Giving us this membership reinforced the expectation that we would have a timeshare to exchange. Windjammer knew the ship would not be ready, so we can only assume their intention in providing the Trading Places membership was to further mislead prospective buyers.
We believe that Windjammer and CS 300 misrepresented the facts relative to the timeshares they were selling, and has breached the terms of the purchase agreement. We are requesting reimbursement of the purchase price of the timeshare ($13,260) plus the maintenance fee paid last year ($330), less what we would have had to pay for the cruise we took last year ($2,400), within 14 days of receipt of this letter or we will pursue legal action.
Robert of Duncans Mills CA (02/10/07)
Like lots of other folks, I purchased a timeshare on Windjammer's SV LaMer, which was supposed to be in the water in late 2005. As far as I can tell, it's still in a drydock in Trinidad, and I don't know if any work is being done to make it seaworthy. Windjammer seems to be having major cash-flow problems. Several months ago I received a three page letter from the LaMer people that said all kinds of things; but failed to mention anything close to an expected date for this ship to be in service. It sounded like what is called a lulling letter.
Windjammer says you can go on another of their ships, but why would I want to trade a week on a luxury ship for an equivelant time on an ordinary ship? Perhaps if they made it a two for one offer it would be more acceptable. Anyway, is there any possibility of a class action suit in relation to this matter?
As time goes by and Windjammer suffers cash-flow problems and appears to be getting rid of ships, ie; Amazing Grace, it appears that I may lose my whole investment of approximately $14,000 if they go belly-up.
Toni of Fox Point WI (09/08/06)
My family has done 2 Windjammer Cruises (Indies / Virgin Islands with our 2 teenagers), and although we enjoyed our Windjammer Trips, we would like to say B E W A R E to anyone who cares about customer service quality. We loved the casual aspect of the trip, and are adaptable so we were ok with the primitive accomodations, BUT we found out a lot about Windjammer management / operations at the very end of our 2nd trip by misplacing my husband's carry-on, and then telling us that it must have been stolen from the dock where the suitcases had all been dumped in a heap (unattended) when we were all being shuttled to the dock. Windjammer staff assured us that all suitcases were off the ship, we headed to the airport.
Our suitcase was found on the ship minutes after we left for the airport, and Lindblad made NO ATTEMPT to contact us or to get it to us, even though our phone numbers were clearly labeled on the suitcase tags + they had our flight info (we only found out because another passenger told us at the airport that they had found it, offered to get it to us since we were in the cab before him, but Windjammer refused to let him take it). We spent several hours in the airport trying to get someone from Windjammer Barefoot Cruises to return our calls & to get the suitcase to the airport (a short drive) while our flight was delayed for 4 hours. The Windjammer office said they would have the Captain of the Polynesia call us. No one contacted us at the airport and we returned home without the carryon.
JOANNE of Windjammer finally called us 2 DAYS LATER to tell us that YES - they had found the suitcase, and they were shipping the suitcase to us, but since it had to be shipped internationally, the customs agents had to discard all my husband's medications. She proceeded to reprimand us for trying to SHIP MEDICATIONS IN A SUITCASE INTERNATIONALLY. I had to remind Joanne that this suitcase WAS MY HUSBAND'S CARRYON AND WAS NEVER INTENDED TO BE SHIPPED, and since it was Windjammer's fault it was shipped, I asked for a refund for the medications. Joanne refused, but said we could send try sending a letter to Windjuammer HQ, which we did. I then asked to speak to the Director of Customer Service and she told me that she W A S the Director. My husband sent a letter to Windjammer HQ, and also to the Windjammer CEO. WE NEVER GOT A REPLY FROM EITHER HQ OR THE CEO.
Basically -- once you pay out those tips at the end of the trip, they're done with you. Since the Windjammer incident we switched over to Lindblad Expeditions (expeditions.com), which is a fabulous company with excellent trip offerings and superior staff and management. My family has taken their Sea of Cortez trip and their Alaskan Coastal trip. For anyone who likes nature, wildlife, small ships, nice crowd, very casual cruising -- check out Lindblad at expeditions.com. Great company that treats their customers with respect!
William of Orlando, FL (07/02/06)
My wife and I became buyers of a sea-cabin aboard the S.V. La Mer which was to be added to the Windjammer Barefoot Cruise fleet in 8/05. Since our purchase agreement in 10/04 we have communicated, via email, on at least 20+ occassions with minimual response and with literally no information regarding the status of the La Mer.
The questions I have asked on numerous occassions are: 1) What is the current status of the refitting of the La Mer, 2) what is the current sailing date of the La Mer, 3) what are the names and addresses of the Board of Directors for the Association De La Mer (which the Disclosures... say owners are entitled to).
I paid $12,000 plus for a product I have received virtually no communication on and spent many hours on the computer trying to communicate with the Manager of the Association De La Mer and Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, with no results!
Gerlene of Champaign, IL (06/30/06)
In December 2003 my husband and I purchased a cabin on the new ship LaMer which was to sail in 2005. So far the ship is in the same condition it was in when we purchased and I have pictures to prove it. I have a feeling that I will never see this ship sail and I feel we have been victims of a scam.
We can not find out any information from our Association or the Windjammer company as to what is happening. They refuse to return telephone calls or answer any communications. There has been no election of a board for the Association or an accounting of the funds as promised in the By-Laws. The ship, Polynisia, is scheduled to go out of service by 2010. The Amazing Grace and the Flying Cloud have been retired. This leaves three ships afloat. Two of them are old and will need a lot of work to remain viable. As of now only one is safe enough to operate out of a US port.
right now I would like an accounting of our Asscoiation and an election of a Board that will answer the concerns of the membership. They are still selling timeshares on a ship that most likely will never sail.
Sandy of Broken Arrow OK (05/25/06)
I purchased a time share for Windjammer's new ship La Mer in Nov 2003. After many phone calls with questions, I was finally given Alice Sargent as a contact. I talked to her many times and ended with her promising to follow up on the info I would send her. I sent information proving:
1. I was over charged $1,725 for my cabin from the base price.
2. A Pre-Const. Disc. of $3,000, 1st day incentive was promised when I signed the contract and it was never taken off the base price. They promised the ship would be in the water no later than Sept 2005. It is now May 2006 and I still have not heard anything about the ship sailing date. In Nov 2003 I was told the confirmation of an alternate sailing date was 2 weeks notice, in Dec 2004 I heard it was changed it to 120 days. I bought the timeshare to sail ONLY in the South Pacific which is what was promised at the sales meeting in Nov 2003.
Barb of Olathe, KS (05/23/06)
Like so many others, we are terribly disappointed with the lack of service from the Windjammer staff and family. We have sent letters and phone call messages regarding the timeshare purchase on the LaMer, which should have been sailing in 2005. We have received no updates. This is absolutely inexcusable on the part of the Burke Family and Windjammer.
$14,000 of our money was given in good faith for a 10-year timeshare purchase on the LaMer in November 2003. It's now May 2006 and no word on when we might expect to utilize our purchase.
I would like to still be able to walk when the LaMer is ready to sail.
Patrick of Bixby OK (05/19/06)
I agree with Tom of Meredith NH. I also bought a Sea Cabin on Windjammer's new ship La Mer, and am having a hard time getting information from Windjammer or Association de La Mer. When I bought the Timeshare in November, 2003, they said the ship would be in service by late 2004 or 2005, but no one will tell us when it will be in service. Based on information I've been able to gather:
A) The ship (currenly called Discoverer) has been in a Trinidad shipyard for 3 years with no visable work completed,
B) The original plan was to sell only 1/2 the cabins as Timeshares, but now all cabins are up for sale as Timeshares, and
C) They now need more capital to complete the project,
D) No one will quote even a tentative planned in-service date, and
E) No one at Windjammer or Association de LaMer is communicating with the Timeshare owners nor will they return phone calls, emails, or letters.
I question whether I have fallen prey to one giant scam and have therefore lost a lot of money. Although the Timeshare plan does allow you to take cruises on other existing Windjammer ships, the main reason many of us bought into the LaMer was the plan for LaMer to sail to other areas besides the Caribbean (Mediterranean and Pacific).
Tom of Meredith NH (05/09/06)
Has anyone else been having a hard time getting information about the status of La Mer, a cruise ship that is reportedly being built by Windjammer Barefoot cruises? I bought a timeshare on it, and can never get Windjammer to return any Calls or emails regarding it's status and I'm getting concerned.
We are unable to book cruises on La Mer, and are instead being given berths on their other ships. The biggest concern is the lack of communication, as we and many others have invested a considerable amount of money to purchase a Sea Cabin and can get no status on when it will be available.
Joanne of Miami FL (01/04/06)
I am the customer service manager for Windjammer Barefoot Cruises and it has come to my attention that you have complaint postings against our company as old as 2002 and 2003. What is your company's policy on updating and removing old/outdated complaints? Surely you don't keep complaint postings indefinately. Also what would you require from Windjammer Barefoot Cruises to obtain a satisfactory rating with your organization. Other organizations such as the BBB offer businesses the opportunity to change their rating status by re-reviewing the complaint and closing out the file. What is the policy or procedure on closing out a claim and removing it from your postings? Your immediate attention to this very important concern would be greatly appreciated. I look forward to speaking with someone about this. Sincerely, Joanne Cuevas, Customer Service Manager, Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, telephone 305-672-6453, ext. #1320.
Fred of Newtown PA (11/17/05)
I inquired about booking a cruise with my brother and two sisters and spouses on Windjammer in Oct. of 05. They sent a brochure and an e-mail with information. In the information it stated that if we booked before 12/1 the prices would be discounted. After 12/1 the 06 prices would apply. We decided to go on their ABC Island cruise Aruba) which was advertised in the brochure. When I called back in early Nov. I was told that the ABC cruise was not on the schedule for 2006 but was replaced by a trip on the same vessel starting in Antigua. I was told that the price would be the same as that advertised for the ABC cruise.
After checking with the rest of the family I called again 1 week later (Nov. 13) to book the trips. I was told that the price had gone up some $400 per person from that price for the same accomodations in the brochure. I booked the trip anyway but called back 2 days later to inquire about the original claim for a discounted prices and to change the level of one of the reservations. I was told that It did not matter what they had put in writing but the owners had changed their mind and decided to apply the 06 pricing on Nov.1.
In addition if I wanted to change my reservation it would cost $45 / person because I had alresdy put a deposit down.I asked to speak to a supervisor and got Joanne on the phone. After a few weak excuses - the system would not let them change a price, they (Windjammer) didn'y really own the vessels (not true. Ships are individually incorporated for liability purposes but the beneficial owner is Windjammer) she said that that was the way it was and if I didn't like it I could cancel.
She refused to give me the name of anyone else in the organization I might contact, would not discuss it any longer and said goodby and hung up. If they treat customers on the phone this rudely, I am not optimistic about the treatment you will get when aboard. I was not necessarily looking for them to honor the original price (although that might have been nice based on what they wrote and said on the phone) but some sense that we are customers that keep them in business would have been nice. Than attempting to charge an additional $90 to change a 2 day old reservation was salt on the wound. One of the poorest customer attitudes I have encountered.
Andrew of North Hampton NH (07/06/05)
On occasion, the one can best rate a cruise adventure by how well the cruise line responds to its failings. This report falls within that category. In March 2005, my wife sailed on Windjammer'fs Amazing Grace with the expectations of transiting from Freeport Bahamas to Port of Spain, Trinidad with 9-12 port calls. Unfortunately, a letter sitting on our stateroom bottom bunk informed us that an engineering problem would reduce ship speed-of-advance to six knots. The reduced speed would only allow the ship to travel as far as Sint Maarten.
After returning from the cruise, we sent a mild letter of complaint to Windjammer, which focused on the last minute itinerary change. Windjammer Barefoot Cruises' Customer Service Manager finally responded after 2.5 months. A major portion of the letter follows.
"Thank you for contacting us in March and sharing your concerns regarding the unfortunate change to your cruise. On behalf of Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, I do apologize for any inconveniences you experienced. We understand that many passengers were upset with the last minute notice in the change of sailing/itinerary schedule. Unfortunately, Windjammer was given minimal notice from the ship owners and operators of the changes and we in turn did not have the luxury of time to advise passengers prior to sailing. Once onboard, everyone was advised of the changes and given the option to sail or disembark. We tried to provide as much assistance as possible in re-arranging flights, hotels and other miscellaneous changes for passengers who chose to sail. We also absorbed many of the air cost and change fees incurred as a result of the change in disembarkation port. I am sorry if you felt our efforts were lacking. In closing, I would like to refer you to our policy on Sailing/Itinerary Changes, which is clearly disclosed in our brochures (under Important Information') and our website (under Know Before You Go')."
"The policy is as follows. Advanced or Delayed Sailings/Itinerary Changes Windjammer has the right to cancel, advance, postpone or substitute any scheduled sailings, itinerary or port-of-call without notice. Windjammer may, but is not obligated to, substitute another vessel for sailing and cannot be liable for loss to passengers by reason of such cancellation, advancement, postponement or substitution. The Captain's judgment on any action or inaction is considered final. Reservations are subject to change in the event of a full ship charter. Customer Service, Manager Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, Ltd. "
From my reading, the letter of response appears to cite factors leading to the problem (1) Windjammer was given minimal notice from the ship owners and operators of the changes and we in turn did not have the luxury of time to advise passengers prior to sailing; and (2) Windjammer has the unfettered right to cancel, advance, postpone or substitute any scheduled sailings, itinerary or port-of-call without notice.
The first argument would give one the impression that Windjammer employs the services of distinctly separated shipowner/operators. In fact, the Burke family owns the entire operation and all entities share office spaces. For documentation, see Henry v. Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, 851 So. 2d 731; 2003 Fla. App. LEXIS 7491(Fla. 3rd DCA. 2003).
The second argument has merit if one accepts that Windjammer can drastically change the itinerary at will and the customer therefore has no recourse. Two schools to thought seem applicable in this case: (1) let the buyer beware), and (2) the expectation of the reasonable man (man used here in the generic sense). ...
I cannot, in all honestly, recommend against booking passage on Amazing Grace if one exercises due diligence and metaphorically puts the Windjammer?fs sales staff through the wringer. Amazing Grace is a grand old ship with none of the amenities or pretense of large cruise ships. The crew provides great service, and the ship has the "potential" to provide a great adventure. I only wish we had benefited fully from that capability, and Windjammer had made Amazing Grace reasonably suitable for the intended purpose.
Andrew of North Hampton NH (4/20/05):
We recently completed a cruise on Amazing Grace. Unfortunately, on arrival, we were informed that an engineering casualty, discovered the day before, would limit ship speed and distance traveled. Consequently, we visited only half the islands promised. The issue, to our mind, is one of openness. Given today's communications, Windjammer Barefoot Cruises could have informed us of the problem, at home, and offered the option of another sailing or perhaps a cancellation.
We have communicated with cruise management and received no reply. Perhaps, this experience could foster a dialogue bearing on what is or should be common practice when a cruise cannot complete the advertised itinerary (i.e., industry norms). From over 20 years' experience at sea, I would posit that neglect lies at the heart of most emerging engineering problems.
We paid for a trip that should have taken us to nine islands and only saw three of any consequence. An associated problem involves soot, which stained all garments worn onboard. This problem does not reflect on the crew, which did an admirable job given the situation. It does reflect badly on headquarters level management.
Debra of Altoona PA (12/19/03):
We planned a honeymoon cruise for our son and daughter-in-law with Windjammer in July 2002 for December 2003. The ship was drydocked and the cruise was changed to another ship. We booked our air with Windjammer and purchased the travel insurance. Windjammer booked our air with less than the minimum time required by the airport for arriving and departing causing our honeymooners to miss their connecting flight to St. Lucia.
I confirmed this mistake with Lucia (the manager of the air department). She admitted that the airport required one hour and twenty minutes between connections and our flight had been booked with only an hour between. Because of this mistake, we lost our stowaway night, which we paid $110.00 for. We have requested Windjammer refund us the money for the stowaway but have had no response.
I also questioned Lucia about the short time for connections on their return flight and she assured me they were within the minimum. However, again in Charlotte our honeymooners were unable to clear customs in time to make the connecting flight. They had to take a later flight.
Before the trip, I ordered merchandise from the Sea Chest website. All the items were listed as being in stock. However, I only received two of the four items. It took two phone calls and two emails to finally get through to someone in their office and I cancelled the other two items because I wanted them for a giftbasket at the rehearsal dinner before the cruise. It is now one week after the cruise and I just received one of the cancelled items in the mail. I am also filing a complaint with my credit card company to not pay for this or any other items I receive from Windjammer.
I know I am only out $110 but I have never experienced such disorganization and poor customer service from a travel company. Not to mention that on the cruise, our honeymooners found out that other passengers had been given half off because of the dry docking of the original ship. We were only given $200 off our price. This inconsistency is unacceptable especially when we booked our trip a year and a half in advance.
Melissa of Highland CA writes (6/17/02):
I, my son, and five other friends booked a double cruise through Windjammer in September of last year (2001). After several changes in itinerary, miscommunications, and general disorganization on WJ's part, we flew out from LAX (one of our party from Cincinatti) to Grenada, West Indies.
We boarded the boat for the first week's cruise (Sunday May 19). We cruised from Monday through Wednesday. On Wednesday, May 22, we were informed that the boat for the second week had been dry docked with a problem and we could not go on our trip as planned. We requested that we be put up for a few days on Grenada. This request was ignored. On Friday afternoon, May 24th, we were told we would have to get up at 3:00 a.m. the next day for a 4:00 a.m. shuttle to the airport on Grenada. We would be flying home that day - May 25. We were instructed to hand in our June 1 return flight tickets. We were given no other options - despite having requested them.
We called Windjammer on May 28 - to request a refund. They offered a refund of the second week only - despite the fact that no one in our party would have been willing to spend so much money for a one-week cruise. The total cost for this cruise for all parties was in excess of $20,000.00 - for one week! This does not include vacation time that was lost, animal boarding fees, shuttles and taxis, meals, miscellaneous expenses incurred while on the first boat etc.
Needless to say - the refund offer of one week is not acceptable, particularly when you realize that WJ literally ruined our vacation and what was left of it by insisting on our return home. I believe I should be allowed to determine how I spend my time and money - and Windjammer overstepped their bounds through their handling of the situation.
In addition, It is my belief that they knew before we even left home that there was a problem with the second boat - and rather than try to fill the cabins for the fist boat at the last minute if we cancelled, they allowed us to come all the way to Grenada before letting us know our intended trip could not be had. There is no excuse for this kind of "customer service" and they should not be allowed to get away with it.
For all but my son (who is 10) - this trip cost several thousand dollars in lost vacation time, airfare which would not have been purchsed for a one week vacation, meals, shuttles and miscellaneous expenses, boarding fees for animals - all apart and aside from the cost of the cruises. For two of our party this was a retirement party/30th wedding anniversary trip. Everyone has been very angry, upset and frustrated by Windjammer's total lack of response initially, and their unwillingness to accept responsibility for our loss.
We note on Windjammer's Web site the following:
Advanced or Delayed Sailings/Itinerary Changes Windjammer has the right to cancel, advance, postpone or substitute any scheduled sailings, itinerary or port-of-call without notice. Windjammer may, but is not obligated to, substitute another vessel for sailing and cannot be liable for loss to passengers by reason of such cancellation, advancement, postponement or substitution. The Captain's judgment on any action or inaction is considered final. Reservations are subject to change in the event of a full ship charter.
We also note that "Sailaway" Trip Insurance is offered for a few hundred dollars per person. Melisssa and her party would have been well advised to take advantage of this.
A follow-up from Melissa:
You printed my complaint against Windjammer, and at the bottom printed their disclaimer with the recommend-ation that we purchase travel insurance. We did. The insurance covers you if you get sick, have a family emergency, accident or whatever and cannot take your cruise. It DOES NOT cover you or your expenses if Windjammer decides to cancel your trip. Yor money is lost - period. Please add this information to your web site since it is important to know. Also, you should know that there is no information about the insurance you are buying in your brochures, ticketing, billing or anything else.
And a follow-up from Windjammer:
Please know we are very sorry for any inconveniences you experienced as a result of the last minute cancellation of your Polynesia cruise. We had no way of knowing ahead of time of the complications that arose during the drydock. We were just as surprised and shocked as you were to discover that the shipyard hired to perform maintenance on the ship would damage the ship. While we understand that you, the customer, is not responsible for the cancellation of the cruise, we too feel it was by no fault of Windjammer Barefoot Cruises.
We tried very hard to re-accommodate every passenger affected and there were many. Those who rescheduled were given a free cruise (a $700.00 per person value) to use at a later date. Those who could or would not reschedule received a full refund for the week they missed. No one was offered free airline tickets or a refund for a previously completed week aboard another vessel.
The president has reviewed your request for a full refund of 2 weeks, including airfare. I am sorry to inform you that request was denied. We will only refund the cruise that was cancelled. You did sail aboard S/V Yankee Clipper for the 1st week and services were rendered. While I am very sorry you were not happy onboard Yankee Clipper we do not feel any compensation is warranted.
Please allow 3-4 weeks for your credit refund to be processed and posted to your statement. Your refund will be issued in the same form in which it was paid. If you have any questions regarding your refund please call customer service at 1-305-672-6453, ext. #1320 or #1352.
I am sorry we will not be able to honor your request for a complete refund. We hope this unfortunate and isolated experience does not deter you from giving Windjammer Barefoot Cruises another try. We appreciate your business and would very much like the opportunity to welcome you back aboard someday.
Joanne Cuevas
Customer Service
All things considered, we'd say Windjammer has treated Melissa's party fairly. Travel is inherently risky, after all. Anyone who signs up for an "adventure" cruise should be ready for unexpected mishaps.
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