Victory Casino Cruises Disputes $791K Shipyard Bill Anchoring Extended Dry Dock

Victory Casino Cruises has confirmed that the extended dry dock of its lone vessel, Victory I, stems from a lawsuit against the company claiming it owes nearly $791,000 to a shipyard in South Carolina. But the Port Canaveral casino cruise ship operator says the civil litigation stems from a “contractual dispute.”

Victory I has been out of commission since its last gaming excursions ran on Sept. 28. Victory Casino Cruises furloughed its entire staff days later, initially suggesting the decision was due to an unexpected delay related to the ship’s planned dry dock to undergo maintenance.

It later came to light that Detyens Shipyards in North Charleston, S.C., had secured a federal seizure warrant for the casino boat. In a maritime complaint filed in South Carolina’s federal district court, Detyens alleged that Victory owes the shipyard $790,666 in outstanding bills.

A federal judge signed off on the warrant seizure, and the U.S. Marshals Service served the warrant aboard Victory I at 10:15 a.m. on Oct. 28. The Warrant of Arrest in Rem keeps the boat docked in the shipyard as the case continues.

Victory Takes Defense Public

Victory Casino Cruises was served the case summons on Oct. 16. Federal law requires the defendant to respond to the litigation within 21 days, or by Nov. 6.

According to the federal court docket, the casino cruise operator has not yet filed a response to Detyens’ allegations. However, the company has commented publicly.

A post to Victory Casino Cruises’ Facebook page said the company is in a “contractual dispute with the shipyard” and is working to “resolve” the situation as soon as possible. Victory clarified that the lawsuit is a civil proceeding in admiralty court.

Bullock suggested that some of the charges were for services and repairs not performed.

The company’s Facebook post took issue with some comments that “seem to take satisfaction in the challenges we are facing.” The cruise operator asked the public to “consider the human impact before sharing rumors or posting hurtful remarks.”

“During this difficult time, there have been many rumors circulating about Victory, along with some hurtful and unnecessary comments. We understand that people have questions. However, it is deeply disheartening to see speculation presented as fact,” the post read.

Future Sailings Unknown

Victory Casino Cruises says it will continue to update its Facebook page regarding future sailings. At this juncture, no excursions are planned, and reservations are not being accepted.

“While we do not have a confirmed return date to announce, please know that we are making every effort to move forward. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support for Victory and the people who make it possible,” the company said.