In what is probably the worst bit of maritime-related news since the Titanic, it appears R. Kelly's much-anticipated Love Letter Cruise has sunk ... before it even set sail.

According to TMZ, Kells has pulled out of the planned five-day cruise, allegedly because the company behind the excursion — Concerts Cruise LLC — has failed to pay him to perform.

"R. Kelly had been looking forward to the cruise and was ready, willing and able to perform for fans," a rep for the singer told the website. "He is sorry for any disappointment but plans to see his fans very soon on a U.S. tour."

Sad news, indeed, especially for anyone wanting to get busy with Robert on the lido deck. The Love Letter Cruise was originally scheduled to depart from Miami on October 1, and make stops in the Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas. Kelly was reportedly set to perform two shows during the voyage, and other performers scheduled to appear included the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Albert Torres and Walter Jones.

A spokesperson for Concerts Cruise did not respond to MTV News' request for comment on the matter by press time, though TMZ reports that the company has already sent an email out to customers informing them of the cancellation, adding that they will "handle all applicable refunds at point of purchase." Over at the Love Letter official site, online bookings "are currently unavailable."

Are you missing out on R. Kelly's cruise crooning? Let us know in the comments!