The inaugural voyage of the Britannic Explorer, England and Wales's first luxury sleeper train, has been postponed just hours before its scheduled departure. The train, operated by hospitality company Belmond, was due to leave London Victoria for Penzance on Friday, but has been diverted for repairs near Southampton.
A Belmond spokesperson confirmed the delay, stating: 'To ensure we meet our high operational standards, we have made the decision to adjust the initial schedule. We are confident that this adjustment will allow us to deliver an extraordinary experience for our guests.' The company did not provide further details on the reasons for the postponement.
The 11 July journey to the Lake District has also been cancelled pending repairs. Passengers who had booked tickets, costing from £11,000 for a three-night stay, have been offered full refunds along with reimbursement for associated travel costs and assistance in rebooking.
The Britannic Explorer features 18 sleeper cabin suites, including three grand suites, fine dining cars, and an onboard spa. Guests can enjoy British cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan and optional guided excursions. The train's new departure date is set for 21 July.
