Cruise West is in the midst of a rumor controversy regarding its future. Dick West, chairman, told Cruise Industry News that the rumors are “vastly exaggerated and that a formal statement would be released later today or tomorrow.”

He would not divulge any further details. Meanwhile, when the Oceanus arrives in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, tomorrow, she has reportedly been sold. Passengers ending their cruise will be going home, while passengers booked on the next cruise have been told not to come, according to local sources. That leaves some 100 booked hotel rooms empty along with cancelled shore excursions. Also, according to the grapevine, Dietmar Wertanzl has left his position as president and CEO of Cruise West.