Cruising Pause Continues Through Oct. 31 

In a statement issued today (Aug 5), that despite the alignment between its previous voluntary suspension to Sept. 15 and the CDC’s current No-Sail Order date of Sept. 30, the association believes that it is prudent at this time to voluntarily extend the suspension of U.S. ocean-going cruise operations to Oct. 31.

CLIA notes in its statement that “this is a difficult decision as we recognize the crushing impact that this pandemic has had on our community and every other industry.”

It continues that it believes “this proactive action further demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to public health and willingness to voluntarily suspend operations in the interest of public health and safety, as has occurred twice prior.”

And it says that CLIA cruise line members will continue to monitor the situation with the understanding that we will revisit a possible further extension on or before Sept. 30, 2020.

CLIA added that at the same time, should conditions in the U.S. change and it becomes possible to consider short, modified sailings, “we would consider an earlier restart.”

Carnival Cancels Sailings

Following CLIA’s announcement, Carnival Cruise Line indicated that it has informed its guests and travel advisors that it has cancelled all cruises scheduled to embark between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31.

Carnival indicated that guests are being offered an enhanced value package of a future cruise credit and onboard credit, or a full refund.

And it notes that if conditions in the U.S. change and short and modified sailings are possible, the industry may consider an earlier restart, and we would consider that as well.

In the meantime, Carnival said that it will continue to work with public health and government officials to finalize enhanced health and sanitation protocols and procedures that will guide our eventual return to service.

And it concludes by saying: “We thank our guests for their continued patience and support as we work through these difficult decisions.  When the time is right, our terrific onboard team will be waiting to welcome our guests back to give them the great vacation they deserve.”