TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The cruise ship MSC Bellissima, which departed Keelung Port on Wednesday on a five-day, four-night trip could not leave port in Naha, Okinawa, due to engine failure stranding 1,880 Taiwanese passengers.

MSC Bellissima's itinerary included stops in Miyako, Naha, and Ishigaki Island. The cruise company arranged charter flights for passengers to return to Taiwan on Sunday, per CNA.

Passengers were also allowed to arrange their own transportation, with a reimbursement fee of no more than NT$12,380 (US$400) per person for travel outside Japan. The cruise company also offered a full refund for the cruise and discount vouchers to be applied to future travel.

Premium class cabins will be given vouchers equivalent to 50% off future cruise travel, while economy cabins will receive vouchers of NT$2,320 valid on any MSC cruise until Dec. 31 next year.

The ship’s engine troubles also canceled the itinerary for 2,100 passengers who had expected to board the ship at Keelung Port on Sunday. Due to extensive engine repairs, it will not begin to sail back to Keelung Port until Tuesday. 

Although the travel agency notified most passengers of the ship's engine problems and canceled the itinerary, several passengers did not receive the notice. Fortunately, cruise personnel greeted them at Keelung Port. 

This was the case of a Japanese woman who went to the west shore pier of Keelung Port expecting to board the cruise ship.  She had planned to cruise to Ishigaki Island with an onward flight to Tokyo. The cruise company offered her a flight voucher and a full refund of her cruise package.