A protest took place when a group of cruise passengers went on a hunger strike after their planned itinerary to Antarctica was altered.

The SH Diana ship suffered an “unexpected malfunction” with its propulsion system, according to CEO Andrea Zito of Swan Hellenic. This issue forced the vessel to head to Ushuaia, Argentina, resulting in a loss of three and a half days of intended exploration in the Antarctic Peninsula.

This incident occurred two weeks into a 21-day cruise that began on November 13, departing from Cape Town, South Africa, with many passengers having invested about $8,900 to $12,600 for the experience, as reported by The Times in the UK.

Swan Hellenic provided guests with a choice between a 50% refund or a 65% credit for a future cruise, Zito mentioned in a statement to YSL News on November 29. Additionally, they informed guests they could participate in excursions and enjoy the ship’s amenities while awaiting their return flights.

“Not every guest was satisfied with the compensation offered initially and they attempted to exert pressure through discussions onboard and by voicing demands to the captain and senior staff for a higher level of compensation,” the statement explained. “For the most part, the initial discontent has calmed down. A small group, however, decided to engage in a hunger strike as their form of protest which is… somewhat counterproductive.”

Mark Stratton, a passenger on board at the time, reported for The Telegraph that three Russian guests camped outside a dining area, wrapped in blankets and holding signs demanding a full refund of the voyage.

Zito did not disclose the duration of the protest. However, the hunger strike has ended and technicians are currently fixing the vessel.

It’s common for expedition cruise itineraries to shift unexpectedly due to environmental conditions, especially in places like Antarctica where weather can be quite variable.

“Swan Hellenic wishes to express its sincere regrets for the alterations made to the itinerary because of the technical complications with the propulsion system, and we understand the disappointment of our guests who were eager to experience Antarctica,” Zito reiterated. “We believe we have provided a very fair compensation package, exceeding our legal obligations. Swan Hellenic consistently aims to surpass guest expectations and looks forward to welcoming our customers back for future adventures.”