The cruise ship Ocean Victory, operated by Spain's newly launched Alma Cruceros, was seized Monday, May 20, at the port of Malaga. The seizure was initiated at the request of the vessel's general agent, Lantimar Group.
As of now, the ship remains in port with all crew members on board, awaiting further developments.

Alma Cruceros, initially marketed as an exclusive luxury experience in the Mediterranean, began operations only a month ago, debuting on April 18 with an eight-day cruise from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Malaga. However, after completing just three voyages, the company abruptly halted sailings. Travel agents received notice on May 9 that the cruise scheduled for May 11 was canceled, with promises of further communication. However, the vessel has not resumed operations since.
While Alma Cruceros has yet to issue an official statement on the ship’s seizure or its future operations, reports emerging speculation about an imminent suspension of payments and possible crew dismissals.

Ocean Victory was chartered from shipowner SunStone, originally planned to operate under Alma Cruceros’ banner for six months annually in the Mediterranean. The vessel was expected to spend the remaining half-year with Albatros Expeditions in Antarctica.

Initially conceived as a high-end luxury cruise targeting affluent passengers with notable collaborations announced with chefs Martín Berasategui and Paolo Casagrande Alma Cruceros progressively adjusted its offerings. Original weekly rates of around €6,000 per passenger were eventually reduced to approximately €2,000, signaling a shift from a luxury to a more accessible boutique experience.

According to sources, the Malaga-based entrepreneur behind Alma Cruceros reportedly faced considerable logistical complexities and unmet expectations that contributed significantly to the company's current difficulties.