Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises have extended the suspension of cruise operations for another month, until May 12, 2020.
Cruises Out of Action for Longer
In light of the current situation around the world, it comes as no surprise that Royal Caribbean, which also owns other cruise brands including Celebrity Cruises, has extended the suspension of operations until May 12, 2020.
The cruise company released the following statement:
Given global public health circumstances, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has decided to extend the suspension of sailings of our global fleet.
We are working with our guests to address this disruption to their vacations, and we are genuinely sorry for their inconvenience. We are also working with our crew to sort out the issues this decision presents for them.
We expect to return to service on May 12, 2020. Because of announced port closures, we expect to return to service for Alaska, Canada and New England sailings July 1, 2020.
In the statement, it was also mentioned that cruises are expected to return to service for Alaska, Canada, and New England from July 1, 2020, after the government there stopped the cruising season. Voyager of the Seas won’t be back in service until June 2020.
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With many more cruises now cancelled, guests will be receiving full refunds along with any pre-purchased packages and shore excursions booked through the cruise lines. Guests can also take advantage of a 125% Future Cruise Credit to sail with Royal Caribbean by December 31, 2021.
The voluntary suspension was originally in place until April 12, 2020 and it went into effect on March 14. However, it has not been so easy getting ships back to their homeports and arranging travel not just for passengers, but for the crew as well. With the extension now for another extra month, it is likely crew members will be going home depending on travel restrictions and how individual arrangements can be made.
