PONANT Ship Charter Canceled Following Payment Dispute Tied to Crypto Arrest
The French luxury cruise company PONANT has abruptly canceled a charter for the Le Commandant Charcot ship, which was set to host 150 Russian passengers. This decision arose following the recent arrest of Iurii Gugnin, a Russian cryptocurrency entrepreneur in the United States, whose company, Evita Investments, was responsible for processing the payments for the charter.
Both PONANT and the chartering agency acknowledged Gugnin’s involvement in the payment process. The Dubai-based Russian agency TRVL, which organized the cruise, has filed a lawsuit against PONANT, claiming that despite the total charter cost being $8.5 million, PONANT has failed to refund $5.8 million following the cancellation.
PONANT, which operates a fleet of 13 vessels and is owned by the Pinault family—also known for their ownership of the luxury goods group Kering—was set to deliver an exclusive polar expedition with this charter. The incident brings to light the intricate ties between high-stakes charters, global finance, and regulatory issues that are increasingly impacting the luxury cruise industry.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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