I rang them today; and while I couldn't speak to Customer Services the nice woman on their information staff checked my booking number -- they have agreed in this case for a full refund. I am so incredibly pleased, and actually really delighted that they acted so promptly and professionally. It certainly has made me feel much better about this company, and I think I'd certainly think about using them in the future -- once they've cleared up their crankshaft problem
So all in all, hooray for Voyages of Discovery.
And thanks again to you all for your support! I'll let you all know how the alternative cruise to Spitsbergen goes!
hjm