It should come as no shock that this week has brought more of the same: itinerary cancellations and extensions to operation suspensions for multiple cruise lines. It may not be the most cheery news, but fans of cruise travel should keep up to date on the most recent estimates for when their favorite cruise line will be back in business. So, let’s check it out.
Carnival
Carnival Cruise Line is one of the leading names in the industry, and their fleet is made up of a few truly big ships. So, naturally, one shouldn’t expect to sit alongside thousands of other like-minded travelers on a Carnival vessel anytime soon. Their new plan is to wait until June 27 to resume operations.
Seabourn
The Washington-based luxury cruise line Seabourn announced on April 14 that they too would be waiting longer than previously thought to get back on the ocean. While it was originally said that they were planning on resuming operations on May 14, they have now pushed that date back to July 1. If you’re now out of a costly cruise vacation, fear not, as Seabourn will be giving affected guests 125% credit to be used on a future cruise.
Princess
Princess originally was expecting to sail again by May 10. Sadly, this isn’t going to happen. Their new date is July 1, just like Seabourn. Their Alaska season will also be affected throughout the whole summer, as the Princess Alaska Gulf sailings have been cancelled. Not every one of their ships will start up again on June 30, as some will start up a bit later.
Holland America
It seems that July 1 is the big day for cruise-goers. Holland America will also resume operations on that day. Also, five of their ships will no longer be sailing to Alaska at all this summer, with all Alaskan itineraries being cancelled on Maasdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Volendam and Westerdam.
Royal Caribbean
Royal, despite its size and success, is a cruise line like any other, and they too have had to figure out solutions to the pandemic. They now plan to pick things back up on June 12, a bit earlier than the aforementioned companies. Guests can also expect a 125% credit to be used on any cruise after that date.
These cancellations further prove the unstable and unsure nature of this whole predicament. Cruise lines, much like us, have to play things by ear and constantly adjust their schedules based on expert advice. If these dates are to be trusted, however, there will be some sweet Fourth of July cruises to look forward to! For those brave enough to leave the house, we suppose….
