Royal Caribbean has announced a suspension of all cruises from the United States for 30 days due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Royal Caribbean Halts Operations
Royal Caribbean has suspended all cruise operations in the United States due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak around the world. The halt to cruises will last for 30 days which will go into effect at midnight tonight across the United States.
The cruise line posted the following statement:
Today Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD. announced that it is suspending cruising in the United States for 30 days.
We understand the gravity of the public health crisis confronting the country. And this is our part to play. So, beginning at midnight tonight, we are pausing the fleet’s US sailings for 30 days.Â
We are reaching out to our guests to help them work through this disruption to their vacations, and we are truly sorry for their inconvenience. We are also communicating with our crew to work out the issues this decision presents for them. We know this adds great stress to our guests, employees and crew, and we are working to minimize the disruption.
Cruises that depart US ports before midnight tonight and international cruises will operate their scheduled itineraries. US ships already at sea will finish their itineraries as planned.
Our business is providing great vacations and creating great memories. We look forward to getting back to work as soon as we can.
This news is expected as now many cruise lines are halting operations to help stop the spread of COVID-19 which has already impacted travel around the world. Current voyages already underway and those departing before midnight tonight will complete their itineraries as normal. Any sailing after that will not take place.
Also Read: Norwegian Cruise Line Brands Suspend All Voyages Due to Coronavirus
The aim at protecting the health of passengers and crew is aa priority for the cruise company which also owns Celebrity Cruises, Azamara, Silversea, TUI Cruises and Pullmantur. With cruise ports denying ships and guests canceling bookings it is the right choice to make for now.
Royal Caribbean now follows Norwegian Cruise Line brands, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and many more. As of writing this, Carnival Cruise Line is yet to make an announcement.
