Carnival Pauses Through Sept. 30

Carnival Cruise Line is advising that it is extending its operational pause in North America through Sept. 30, 2020.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, announced the extension, explaining that: “During this unprecedented pause in our business, we have continued to assess the operating environment and confer with public health, government and industry officials.”

In a letter to passengers and agents, Duffy said that following the cruise industry’s announcement on June 19 that it would voluntarily extend its pause in North America, Carnival Cruise Line is now cancelling all cruises through Sept. 30.

Said Duffy: “We have watched with great interest as commerce, travel and personal activities have begun to start back up, and once we do resume service, we will take all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we bring our ships to in order to maintain public confidence in our business.  Nevertheless, we apologize for disrupting your vacation plans and appreciate your patience as we work through these decisions.”

Carnival initially announced a voluntary 30-day pause in operations on March 13, and has now extended that pause three times, reflecting the public health challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Currently, the cruise line is completing the repatriation of nearly 29,000 crew members to more than 100 nations who serve its fleet of 27 ships.

As with previous pause announcements, Carnival is giving guests who wish to move their booking to a later date a rebooking offer that combines a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) and  either a $300 or $600 Onboard Credit (OBC) that has proven very popular with their guests.  Guests, as always, have the option to receive a full refund.  The process is fully automated so that guests can submit their preference online and they have until May 31, 2021 to make a selection.

Said Duffy: “We appreciate the patience and support of our loyal guests, and recognize how much they want to get back to cruising.  When the time is right, our outstanding onboard team will be waiting to welcome them back and give them the great vacation that they deserve.”