More cruise lines halt sailings

Saturday, 16 Mar, 2020 0

More major cruise lines have temporarily ceased operations in light of the coronavirus outbreak and following the US Government’s health warnings about cruise holidays.

Princess and Viking have now suspended operations, while Virgin Voyages said its inaugural season was being postponed.

Other CLIA members had already voluntarily and temporarily suspended operations from the US.

Kelly Craighead, CLIA president and CEO, said: "This is an unprecedented situation. This has been a challenging time, but we hope that this decision will enable us to focus on the future and a return to normal as soon as possible."

Adam Goldstein, CLIA Global chairman added: "We do not take this decision lightly, and we want the traveling public to know in no uncertain terms the commitment of this industry to putting people first.

"During this time, we will continue to work with the CDC and others to prepare for resumption of sailings when it is appropriate. We know the travel industry is a huge economic engine for the United States and when our ships once again sail, our industry will be a significant contributor to fueling the economic recovery."

The advice follows a number of coronavirus outbreaks on board cruise ships, including the Grand Princess and Regal Princess.

Travelers with existing cruise travel plans are being advised to speak to their operator, transport and accommodation provider for further advice.

In a tweet over the weekend, US President Donald Trump claimed the action taken by cruise lines was at his request, but was immediately criticised for wrongly taking the credit for their decision.

Bev

Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.

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