Princess Cruise Lines review: Cruise is leaving early and Princess is keeping my money

We were scheduled to depart on a Red Sea cruise from Dubai on March 11, 2024 however due to the ongoing security situation in the Red Sea the itinerary has been changed with a new departure out of Cape Town. Now I must be clear that the issue does not surround the change in route due to the security issues, however does have to do with the departure date. We have been advised that we must now board the vessel for departure on March 6 (5 days early). While we appreciate the offer by Princess to cover the flight change fees, and some additional onboard credit, we are simply unable to board early due to work commitments. After dozens of emails and phone calls with PCL we have now run into a road block, whereby we either board the ship for the early sailing or forfeit all fees paid. We have even gone so far as to attempt series of creative solutions with PCL such as a delayed boarding at another port followed by a delayed disembarkation, a movement of the cruise to the following year when we have some flexibility on holidays, or a refund. All have been met with a resounding no. The lack of empathy, customer service and professionalism in this case has been absolutely shocking and now we are left with no holiday for my wifes 50th birthday.