Maxim Gorkiy's future uncertain again / Orient Line delays launch

[Jens Boldt]

The future of 1969 built Maxim Gorkiy (ex-Hamburg, Hanseatic) seems to be uncertain again. She was to sail as Marco Polo II from April next year for Wane Heller's Orient Lines.
But due to the current economic climate the launch of Orient Line's cruises will be delayed, Heller announced today. However he did not say how long the delay will last. (Read here )

Maxim Gorkiy's charter with Phoenix Seereisen ends on November, 30, after (I think) more than 20 years. She was then scheduled to drydock in Greece for a refit to comply with SOLAS 2010. However Heller did not comment her future in the announcement.

Will he spend money on a 39-year-old cruise liner when he doesn't seem to know when (and if he ever will) need it?

Best regards,
Jens