German-based TUI Cruises has announced a return to operations towards the end of July with cruises to nowhere.
TUI to Return With Cruises to Nowhere
The situation for the cruise industry in Germany is looking positive with TUI Cruises announcing a return to service towards the end of July 2020. From July 24 the cruise line will launch “Blue Journeys” with Mein Schiff 2.
The TUI cruise ship will sail 3-day to 4-day cruises out of Hamburg, Germany. However, these cruises will not include any ports of call and basically be cruises to nowhere out of Hamburg and back.
Wybcke Meier, CEO of TUI Cruises, said:
“Our customers and fans have signaled to us in recent weeks that they are longing for the sea and the My Ship. So that travelers can come on board with a good feeling even in these times, we have further tightened our already very strict hygiene and safety measures and adapted them to the current situation. We are pleased to be able to offer the first My Ship trips again from July onwards.”
When the Mein Schiff 2 resumes sailings it will offer an all-inclusive concept with only 60 percent guest capacity full. This will allow social distancing onboard with passengers and crew able to follow health protocols.
The cruise line has developed a 10-point plan for the resumptions of cruise operations. The precautions are based on procedures from health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). The new measures before during and after the cruise have also been implemented by working with the Cruise Lines international Association Germany (CLIA).
Also Read: Three Carnival Corp Cruise Ships to Begin Sailing Next Month
This news follows another popular German cruise line which is the Carnival-owned Aida Cruises which has announced a return to service in August. Three ships will launch cruises for Aida also with limited capacity and health measures. With two of Germany’s largest operators about to begin service, it is a good sign for the industry but it’s only limited to Germany.
In the UK the Foreign Office yesterday updated its advisory against all cruise ship travel for all British nationals. Cruise Lines there will just have to wait longer. it also does depends on travel restrictions, port closures, and new health measures being introduced.
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