Fine Food and Wine Cruise Took my deposit money and claimed that he had contract disputes. I was told to file a travel insurance claim. Contract disputes are not covered by travel insurance , Internet

Merry Edwards Winery offered a Mediterranean Cruise in June 2013.  Windstar Cruise Lines used Fine Food and Wine Cruise as their charter service.  Total price of the cruise including port charges and travel insurance totaled $4560.00.  I made a payment on 5/7/12 of $1,541.50 and another on 8/27/12 of $1,316.50.

We were officially advised today by Jonathan Baltuch, owner of Fine Food and Wine Cruise that an unfortunate unilateral action on Windstar's part has forced the cancellation of the June 2013 cruise.  He regrets that the actions of Windstar created the issue and a solution eludes them.

Further, Mr Baltuch suggested that if we purchased trip insurance through him, or elsewhere, we can proceed to file a claim for determination of coverage by our insurance carrier.

I called Travel Guard today and explained the situation.  Although I was allowed to file a claim, I was told that contract disputes are not covered by the insurance company. 

I also called AMEX and placed a vendor hold on the January debit to my account.  I also filed a claim with AMEX and was told that the company would certainly investigate but most likely not be able to do much since I am outside of the 60 day claim window.

Merry Edwards expressed disappointment and spoke with Dan Chappelle, VPof Sales at Windstar.  He said that he would call the VP of Sales at Travel Guard, Mr. Ackerman, to explain the default by Fine Foods and Wine Cruise.

It is clear to me that Fine Food and Wine Cruise collected my money for a cruise that no longer exists.  I believe the refunds should be made directly to me along with the costs of cancelling other arrangements that I have made.

Mr. Baltuch has not responded to my email nor has he returned phone calls by others scheduled for the cruise.  I would appreciate any help in resolving this unfortunate mess.