How to get compensation for Eurostar delays and cancellations

After a “massive arson attack” brought havoc to the French railways before the Olympics opening, Eurostar journeys remain postponed until Monday, July 29.

Trips from London St Pancras to Paris were also impacted; the rail operator has advised customers to cancel their journey for safety measures.

The UK´s Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer echoed the advice, as he flew to Paris instead of following his Eurostar route as planned.

Compensation

“If you have tickets to watch the Games and end up missing an event due to the transport issues, it may be possible to claim against your insurance – either against ticket protection insurance if you took this out at the point of purchase, or your travel insurance, depending on the specifics of your policy,” stated the consumer group Which?

Eurostar released information for those seeking compensation, stating; “Any affected passengers can cancel or refund their tickets or modify their journey free of charge.”

In the case of being unable to continue your journey on the day, Eurostar will consider reimbursing overnight accommodation, as well as food and transport between the station and your accommodation and “the cost of calling anyone who was waiting for you there”.

No compensation will be granted to cover the cost of alternative transport in the cases that the passengers were informed of transportation options within 100 minutes of the scheduled departure, had refunded their unused ticket or didn´t wait for the next available Eurostar train.

Eurostar also advises customers to talk to their travel insurer first, who is likely to cover the costs of most expenses.