The launch date for Scenic Eclipse has been delayed again.

The first sailing date is now 13 April 2019, following an earlier amended date of late January.

Guests will receive a full refund and a future cruise credit to the value of 25%.

Scenic said that the latest set-back was because of “continuing financial issues at Uljanik shipyard” and a strike by workers.

It added: “Scenic has been in constant contact with the shipyard, workers representatives and the government to ensure the completion of the ship as soon as possible.

“Due to those efforts, more than 600 workers are still on board each weekday. The progress on the ship’s interiors and other areas of the final build stage have seen far less impact from the industrial action, and continue to progress at good pace.

“The specialist commissioning team returned to work progressively last week, however it will not be possible to catch up the now almost six weeks’ time lost due to strikes in this area.

“Scenic acknowledges the regrettable impact this has on guests and understands their disappointment at this change in sailing date.”

Scenic has established a dedicated phone number for guests – 0161 234 286 – and has begun the process of contacting guests and travel agents to provide details.