This video is an update from Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Chairman Richard Fain, as he discusses the development of new protocols and procedures as they prepare a plan to tackle the task of returning to cruising. Richard Fain's message was originally directed for Travel advisors.
Here are you options if you have a cancelled cruise on Royal Caribbean as described in the video your options for rebooking, getting a refund etc.:
As a result of this change, we’re providing you with a 125% Future Cruise Credit to come back and sail with us by April 30th, 2022. Please re-book using your FCC by December 31st, 2021.
• This amount will be based on your total cruise fare paid (or Cruisetour, if applicable). And, we’re giving you a little extra, knowing that this is such a unique circumstance.
• We will automatically issue you your Future Cruise Credit (FCC) via email. So, there’s nothing for you to do!
You can expect to receive your FCC by:
◦ Monday, April 13th, 2020, if your sail date was on or before April 10th, 2020, or on Ovation of the Seas April 11th, 2020, Radiance March 14th, 2020, Jewel of the Seas March 19th – May 5th, 2020, and all April 2020 Spectrum of the Seas sailings.
◦ Monday, April 30th, 2020, if your sail date was April 11th – May 11th, 2020, including Alaska sailings departing May 12th – June 30th 2020, Empress of the Seas June 1st, 2020 & June 12th, 2020 sailings, and May 2020 Voyager of the Seas sailings (excluding May 25th, 2020 sailing).
◦ Friday, May 22nd, 2020, if your sail date was on or after May 12th, 2020.
◦ Tuesday, June 30th, 2020, if you sail date was between June 12th – July 31st, 2020 (excluding Vision of the Seas June 13th, 2020 and Anthem of the Seas June 20th, 2020 sailings).
◦ Friday, July 17th, 2020, if you were booked on a Canada sailing that was cancelled on June 2nd, 2020.
• Please know, taxes & fees and any RoyalUp upgrades will be automatically refunded. You can expect to see these in 45 days.
• A few additional considerations on Future Cruise Credit program:
◦ If you opted into the Cruise with Confidence 100% Future Cruise Credit, you do not qualify for this offer.
◦ If you used a Cruise with Confidence certificate on this sailing, you’ll receive a new Future Cruise Certificate for 125% of your total cruise fare value paid, including the value of your original certificate.
◦ If you used a Future Cruise Certificate on this sailing, you’ll receive a new Future Cruise Certificate. This will be for 125% of any new monetary funds paid on this sailing, plus the reactivated value of your original certificate at 100% of its worth, with an expiration date of December 31st, 2021 and a sail by date of April 30th, 2022.
What happens if the global cruise suspension already impacted you?
- Sailings through April 10th, 2020, and paid additional monetary funds on a new booking within this extended suspension period, you’ll receive two 125% Future Cruise Credits: one for the original booking and another equal to 125% of any monies paid towards cruise fare on the new booking. You are able to opt in to refund one or both via the process below.
- Sailings departing March 13th – July 31st, 2020 (including Canada sailings departing August 1st – October 31, 2020), and paid additional monetary funds on a new booking within this extended suspension period, your original FCC’s will be reissued at the original amount, and then you’ll receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit for any new amount paid towards cruise fare for your cancelled booking. You are able to opt in to refund one or both via the process below.
Lift and Shift (Only available for sailings cancelled as part of our global suspension on May 20th, 2020 or after) : If you prefer to move your existing booking to a 2021 sailing – we’re happy to move you! We will price protect the original pricing and/or promotion on the same itinerary, length, product, and stateroom category as your original sailing within 4 weeks (before or after) of the original sail date in 2021. For example, if you are moving from a July 30th, 2020 sailing, you can move to a sailing that is the same itinerary, length, product, and stateroom category, and the sail date between June 30th, 2021 – August 30th, 2021. If your sailing was cancelled on:
• May 20th, 2020, please contact your Travel Advisor or call us by June 10th to move to a new sailing. If we don’t hear from you, we will automatically issue your Future Cruise Credit.
• June 2nd, 2020, please contact your Travel Advisor or call us by June 17th to move to a new sailing. If we don’t hear from you, we will automatically issue your Future Cruise Credit.
If you prefer the lower value in a full refund instead of the 125% Future Cruise Credit, we’re happy to process this for you. Given how fluid this situation is, and the opportunity to use the extra credit being offered:
• You may request a refund and your certificate will be deactivated. You must request your refund by:
◦ December 31st, 2021 for sailings departing March 13th – May 11th, 2020, plus Alaska sailings departing May 12th – June 30th 2020, Empress of the Seas June 1st, 2020 & June 12th, 2020 sailings, and May 2020 Voyager of the Seas sailings (excluding May 25th, 2020 sailing).
◦ December 31st, 2020 for sailing departing May 12th – July 31st, 2020, including Canada sailings departing August 1st – October 31st, 2020
• We’ll then deactivate your Future Cruise Credit and process your refund to your original form(s) of payment, which will include any non-refundable deposits.
• To avoid waiting on the phone to cancel, please click here and we will get the process started for you.
• You can expect to receive your refund 45 days after you submit your request.
• Please note: If you used a Cruise with Confidence certificate on this sailing, and you request a refund instead, we’ll refund any NEW funds paid above the certificate amount, and we’ll reinstate your original Cruise with Confidence certificate.
If you purchased Cruise Planner items and were booked on a sailing departing:
• June 12th – July 31st, 2020 and your sailing was canceled on May 20th due to the global suspension, you can opt-in to receive an Onboard Credit in the value of 125% of the total Cruise Planner purchases on your reservation.
◦ Click here by June 10th, 2020 to request your higher value credit and we’ll email it to you by June 30th, 2020. If we don’t hear from you by June 10th, 2020, your Cruise Planner purchases will be automatically refunded. You’ll receive your refund within 45 days of June 10th. We are working as quickly as possible and we appreciate your patience during these unprecedented times.
◦ Also, if you opt for a cruise fare refund or for Lift and Shift before June 10th, you are not be eligible for this Cruise Planner Onboard Credit offer.
• August 1st – October 31st, 2020 and your sailings was cancelled on June 2nd due to the Canada travel ban, you can opt-in to receive an Onboard Credit in the value of 125% of the total Cruise Planner purchases on your reservation.
◦ Click here by June 17th, 2020 to request your higher value credit and we’ll email it to you by July 17th, 2020. If we don’t hear from you by June 17th, 2020, your Cruise Planner purchases will be automatically refunded. You’ll receive your refund within 45 days of June 10th. We are working as quickly as possible and we appreciate your patience during these unprecedented times.
◦ Also, if you opt for a cruise fare refund or for Lift and Shift before June 17th, you are not be eligible for this Cruise Planner Onboard Credit offer.
• Questions about the 125% Cruise Planner credit? Click here for more details.
If you purchased Cruise Planner items and were booked on a cruise departing on or before June 12th, 2020 (and Vision of the Seas’ June 13th, 2020 and Anthem of the Seas’ June 20th, 2020 sailings):
• Click here for more details about your refunds.
Cancellations for sailings on or before April 10th, 2020:
• If you purchased refundable air or hotel accommodations through Royal Caribbean, they will be automatically refunded to you.
• If you booked on your own, please contact the service provider directly for your options with them.
Cancellations for sailings between April 11th – July 31st, 2020, and Canada sailings between August 1 – October 31, 2020:
• If you purchased refundable air or hotel accommodations through Royal Caribbean, they will be automatically refunded to you within 45 days after we process the cancellation.
• If you booked non-refundable air through Royal Caribbean or booked on your own, please contact the service provider directly for your options with them.
We know, this too shall pass, and we are optimistic that very soon you’ll be excited about planning your next cruise vacation. As always, the most important thing to us will always be the safety of our guests and crew. In the meantime, we’ll continue to monitor the global situation. We wish you good health and truly appreciate your continued loyalty.
For the most current U.S. government travel advisories, be sure to visit these sites:
U.S. Centers for Disease Control
MIAMI, June 2, 2020
PRNewswire -- P&O Cruises has announced an extension to the pause in its operations until October 15, 2020 as it focuses on working in close coordination with all relevant public health bodies to approve further enhancement of the company's already stringent health and safety protocols.
In the latest of a series of videos P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said:
"As a business our operational focus is not "when can we resume sailing?" but is instead "how can we develop a comprehensive restart protocol that will keep everyone on board, our crew and guests, safe and well and still give our guests an amazing holiday?"
"We are working with government and industry bodies at the highest possible level, such as Public Health England (PHE) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to review every aspect of a holiday with us and establish a framework of policies and procedures. Our aspiration is to be adopting best practice in managing COVID-19 within the travel industry.
"Unfortunately, as the world continues to adapt to this global crisis, we have made the decision, difficult as it is, to extend our pause in operations for all sailings up to and including October 15, 2020. We are so sorry for the disappointment this will cause to so many of our guests."
All guests who were booked on these cancelled sailings will receive an enhanced Future Cruise Credit which gives an additional 25% on top of the amount paid for the holiday.
Ludlow continued:
"We have now amended our systems so that those guests with the enhanced 125% Future Cruise Credit may now redeem them online without the need to call us, which will make things much easier for our guests. Further details of this will be on the website."
Following feedback from guests P&O Cruises has also confirmed that the Future Cruise Credit, which may be held until the end of 2021, may be put against any holiday on sale at that time, giving guests maximum flexibility and choice.
FCCs may also be used to upgrade or for a second cabin for any existing booking and also may be gifted or transferred to someone else. This option will also be available until the end of December 2021.
"P&O Cruises is also introducing a 5% deposit for new bookings made between 27 May and 29 June 2020. The offer is available on applicable Early Saver and Select Price holidays of 19 nights or fewer from January 2021. See website for details.
"We want to apologise once again to those guests who wait for refunds, particularly at a time of financial constraints, however the new technology we have in place is rapidly improving things though and we continue to make further progress on a daily basis."
Expanding on the likely protocols Ludlow said:
"We have for years had in place many of the protocols now considered advisable for other social gathering venues, such as hand-sanitizing stations and rigorous cleaning and disinfecting procedures. We also have for years gone beyond those protocols by having guests complete a health declaration form and having a comprehensive medical facility on board each ship providing 24/7 medical care and treatment. During the recent crisis, we added robust health screening upon embarkation, starting with thermal scanning of guests and crew.
"Along with the rest of the world, we will adapt. We will work closely with medical experts and global authorities to help us determine the best way to move forward while honoring our highest responsibility – the health, safety, and wellbeing of our guests, crew and communities we visit, along with compliance and environmental protection.
"We have always taken such pride in our standards of cleanliness and hygiene before Covid-19, but when we return there will be enhanced protocols approved by hospitality and national public health authorities. This will ensure we continue to have in place high levels of cleanliness across every single aspect of public areas, crew living areas and every item of furniture in cabins and everywhere on board as well as approved safety standards for the service of food and drink; entertainment and experiences on board and on shore.
"When the time is right, we will be ready to resume our tradition of providing amazing holiday experiences for our guests."
About P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises is Britain's favourite cruise line, welcoming guests to experience the good life and enjoy a blend of discovery, relaxation and exceptional service catered towards British tastes. P&O Cruises fleet of premium ships combine genuine service, a sense of occasion and attention to detail, ensuring guests have the holiday of a lifetime, every time.
In 2020, P&O Cruises will launch Iona. The new LNG-powered ship, with 5,200-guest capacity, will be the largest ship built to serve the UK market. Iona will feature enhancements to already successful brand signature venues from the existing fleet, as well as features newly developed for Iona. These include a breathtaking three deck atrium in the heart of the ship as well as SkyDome – an exclusively designed glass dome by award-winning British engineers Eckersley O'Callaghan. This will be a world first at sea and offer a unique space for both relaxing in all weathers and providing entertainment, featuring aerial performers and a wealth of live acts.
P&O Cruises visits over 200 destinations worldwide and offers itineraries generally ranging from two to 17 days and also an annual world cruise. P&O Cruises sails to Australia & New Zealand, Baltic, the British Isles, Canada, Spain, Portugal & the Canary Islands, the Caribbean, Central America, Dubai & the Arabian Gulf, the Far East & Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, South America, the South Pacific, the United States and Western Europe.
SOURCE P&O Cruises
At Celestyal Cruises, they have taken the difficult decision to extend the suspension of our sailings until 30th of July 2020 due to the ongoing travel restrictions and temporary port closures within the region in which we operate.
The Greek government recently announced that the Greek tourism season will gradually recommence in the next few weeks with international flights from select countries resuming in July. They will continue to monitor the phased opening of Greece to international tourists while working closely with the Greek authorities on the development of enhanced health and safety protocols.
They apologize to their valued guests for the inconvenience this further temporary suspension will cause. They are confident they understand that they take into consideration all aspects that will ensure the well-being of their guests and crew. It’s encouraging to see that Greece is prudently commencing it’s reopening for international tourism in a phased manner following the country’s globally acclaimed best-practice handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the time is right, they will look forward to recommencing their operations and welcoming guests back onboard.
For all named and paid individual guests impacted by this temporary suspension, Celestyal Cruises is offering a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) valued at 120% of original booking value. Guests will have until the end of December 2021 to redeem their Future Cruise Credit against any of Celestyal Cruises’ itineraries through end of December 2022. For additional flexibility should guests choose not to redeem their FCC by end of December 2021, they will automatically receive a full refund equal to the original amount paid to Celestyal upon the voucher’s expiry.
To reduce the inconvenience as much as possible, they will automatically send the Future Cruise Credit Voucher directly to guests or their travel advisors, so there will be no need to call the Contact Centre other than to rebook.
Following their recent 2021 & 2022 digital brochure launch supported by the generous early booking promotional campaign ‘Escape To The Future’, an updated ‘Peace of Mind’ policy allows guests to change any cruise that sets sail from now through December 31, 2021. This applies to new bookings made until August 31, 2020. As long as the booking is changed at least 30 days before the sail date, a Future Cruise Credit for 100 percent of the value received by Celestyal will be issued. The credit can be used toward any cruise that sets sail through December 31, 2022.
Follow me on IG for real-time cruise updates!- https://bit.ly/2JvNd8z
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line today announced that sailings will resume onboard Grand Celebration July 25th and onboard Grand Classica October 2nd. The cruise line prepares for its anticipated return, it is putting travelers’ health and safety front and center, rolling out an extensive list of new preventative measures designed to ensure the wellness of both passengers and crew. In the video we dive into all of the updates!
This video is an update from Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Chairman Richard Fain, as he discusses the development of new protocols and procedures as they prepare a plan to tackle the task of returning to cruising. Richard Fain's message was originally directed for Travel advisors.
Connect with me on IG for real-time updates! https://bit.ly/alannaIG
New cruise news with Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages as they both update and extend their global suspensions on cruising! We discuss when each cruise line is aiming to reopen and cruise again along with their cancellation policies and options for cruisers if you have a sailing that is affected by this new cruise extension!
Connect with me on IG for real-time updates! https://bit.ly/alannaIG
Royal Caribbean has made an announcement today extending the pause on cruising & giving us the possibility that the China market and sailings will be reopening first when cruising can begin again.
Royal Caribbean® remains committed to providing you with the support and service necessary to navigate these extraordinary times. With health and safety at the forefront, we are committed to doing our part to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and have therefore confirmed that the suspension of all cruise operations is now extended through July 31, 2020. This decision is in alignment with guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and will allot ample time to further develop our comprehensive return to service measures to protect our guests and crew as we adapt to a “new tomorrow.”
For those currently confirmed on sailings departing June 12–July 31, 2020, and not previously cancelled under our Cruise with Confidence offer, a few options have been prepared for consideration.
LIFT & SHIFT:
Our NEW Lift & Shift option is ideal for those simply wishing to move their existing reservation to next year, protecting their original price and promotion. Select next year’s sailing on the same itinerary type, sailing length, stateroom category, and within the same 4-week window of the original cruise date and your clients are all set. Act quickly — option expires on June 10, 2020!
125% Future Cruise Credit:
To account for the inconvenience this has caused, guests are eligible for a 125% Future Cruise Credit (FCC) that is based on the total cruise fare paid at the guest-level and will be automatically issued on-or-before June 30, 2020 — if neither of the other options is selected. Taxes and fees, as well as any pre-purchased amenities or onboard packages will be automatically refunded to the original form of payment within 45 days from the cancellation date.
If you previously opted to take advantage of our Cruise with Confidence policy, the 100% FCC will stand, and this new option is ineligible. Additionally, if your clients redeemed their Cruise with Confidence Future Cruise Credit on a sailing that is now cancelled, your original FCC will be reinstated, plus 125% of any amount paid by the guest on the cancelled reservation.
REFUND:
Looking for a refund? No problem! We are happy to return the funds paid per guest when requesting this option on-or-before December 31, 2020. To submit on your client’s behalf, simply complete the new “Cancellation Form” on CruisingPower.com under “Brand Programs & News” and the process will begin. Your client can expect their refund to the original form of payment within 45 days from the cancellation date. To ensure your client is making the best choice, no need to rush on deciding — the 125% Future Cruise Credit will remain active until the point when a refund request is submitted, at which time it will be deactivated.
If you redeemed a Cruise with Confidence Future Cruise Credit on an impacted sailing and would now prefer a refund instead, we are happy to process this request in the amount of any new funds paid above the original certificate and, in turn, will reinstate the Cruise with Confidence FCC for future use.
May 13, 2020 – 10 AM
With the well-being of our Guests, Crew Members and Cast Members our top priority, and in line with direction from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Disney Cruise Line has suspended all-new departures through Monday, July 27, 2020.Guests currently booked on affected sailings will be offered the choice of a cruise credit to be used for a future sailing within 15 months of their original sail date, or a full refund. These Guests and travel agents will receive an email from Disney Cruise Line outlining details and next steps.Guests who booked their reservation through a travel agent should contact them directly with any questions. Those who booked directly with Disney Cruise Line and have questions after receiving their email should call us at (866) 325-6685 or (407) 566-7797.
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Adventures by Disney and AmaWaterways River Cruise Update
In our continuing effort to ensure the well-being of our Guests and team members, Adventures by Disney along with AmaWaterways, our partner in river cruise sailings, have decided to suspend all river cruise sailings and their associated Escape trips through the end of July.
The following Adventures by Disney River Cruise sailings have been cancelled:
Rhine River Cruise
June 14, 2020
June 28, 2020
July 12, 2020
July 26, 2020
Rhône River Cruise
June 11, 2020
July 9, 2020
Seine River Cruise
June 11, 2020
July 2, 2020
July 16, 2020
Danube River Cruise
June 20, 2020
June 27, 2020
July 4, 2020
July 11, 2020
Additionally, the following Adventures by Disney Escapes have been cancelled:
Amsterdam Escape: June 21; July 5 & 19, 2020
Budapest Escape: June 25, 2020
Paris Escape: June 9 & 18; July 7 & 9, 2020
Guests Can Experience Over 20 New Destinations with Itineraries Into 2023
Cruise Line to Set Sail for All Seven Continents Including Antarctica
Miami, FL, US - May 11, 2020
Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel with a 53-year history of breaking boundaries, today announced that is has opened more than a year of wish-list worthy sailings for 2021 through 2023, with voyages to over 20 new destinations across all seven continents.
Among the notable itineraries are:
· Norwegian Star’s first voyage to Antarctica beginning in 2021 when she sails from Buenos Aires, Argentina for a season of 14-day Extraordinary Journeys, visiting five ports of call across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and the Falkland Islands, including a majestic sailing by Deception Island and Elephant Island/Cape Lookout.
Norwegian Star’s March 2022 South America sailing when she will become the first in the fleet to visit Fortaleza and Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, during a 15-day itinerary departing from Rio de Janeiro.
Norwegian Star’s July 14 and July 25, 2022 Northern European sailings, when she will make the brand’s debut in Greenland with calls to Nuuk, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik during two back-to-back 10-and -11-day sailings from Reykjavik, Iceland.
Norwegian Jade’s 12-day Extraordinary Journey sailings from December 2021 through January 2022, when she will make Norwegian Cruise Line history as the first ship to offer roundtrip cruises from Cape Town, South Africa. The voyages will include visits to Luderitz and Walvis Bay, Namibia; Durban, and will feature overnight calls in Cape Town and Richard’s Bay, South Africa.
Norwegian Sun’s November 2021 sailing, when she will make her Asia debut and will become the first in the fleet to visit the exotic destinations of Nagoya, Beppu and Himeji Japan; Manila and Coron, Philippines; Kota Kinabalu and Melaka, Malaysia; Muara, Brunei and Kampot, Cambodia.
“The just-announced itineraries for 2021 through 2023 are designed to provide guests with vacations of a lifetime,” said Harry Sommer, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief executive officer. “At this moment, we are in our respective corners of the world destination daydreaming. We wanted to use this time to provide our loyal guests with the best-of-the-best itineraries. We’ll set sail to more than 20 new incredible destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and South Africa while also sailing to the over 300 destinations our guests have come to love. This time around, we’re giving our guests more time to plan their long-awaited vacations as well as additional extraordinary ports-of-call. We can’t wait for them to experience these vacations of a lifetime.”
· Elephant Island, Antarctica (No disembarkation) – January 2021 (Norwegian Star)
· Deception Island, Antarctica (No disembarkation) – January 2021 (Norwegian Star)
· Nagoya, Japan – November 2021 (Norwegian Sun)
· Beppu, Japan – November 2021 (Norwegian Sun)
· Durban, South Africa – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)
· Luderitz, Namibia – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)
· Walvis Bay, Namibia – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)
· Timaru, New Zealand – December 2021 (Norwegian Spirit)
· Manila, Philippines – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Coron, Philippines – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun
· Muara, Brunei Darussalam – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Melaka, Malaysia – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Miyakojima (Okinawa), Japan – March 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Himeji, Japan – March 2022 (Norwegian Sun)
· Fortaleza, Brazil – March 2022 (Norwegian Star)
· Salvador de Bahia, Brazil – March 2022 (Norwegian Star)
· Nuuk, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)
· Qaqortoq, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)
· Nanortalik, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)
· Yangon, Myanmar – November 2022 (Norwegian Spirit)
· Maputo, Mozambique – January 2023 (Norwegian Jade)
· Kampot, Cambodia – January 2023 (Norwegian Sun)
For a complete list of the new 2021 to 2023 itineraries, visit www.ncl.com.
For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line ships and their itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.
About Norwegian Cruise Line
As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 53 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 17 contemporary ships sail to nearly 300 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, mini-suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.
CALABASAS, CA – (May 11, 2020)
Award-winning luxury river cruise company AmaWaterways today announced the majority of its 2022 deployment is now open for group and individual bookings - a full six months ahead of previous season openings. All itineraries in France, Portugal, Holland and those traveling the Rhine and Moselle rivers are open for reservations, with added rewards for guests who book early. By May 20, the remaining 2022 river cruise voyages with pre- and post-cruise land extensions will also be available. While the company would typically open 2022 bookings much later in the year, increased demand for 2022 sailings led to early release of the deployment.
“We are excited to open our 2022 bookings six months earlier than originally anticipated, given the heightened demand from individuals and special interest groups for sailings in 2021 and beyond,” said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “We’ve seen a strong showing for our new offerings, especially with new ships AmaSiena and AmaLucia joining the fleet, and AmaDahlia launching on the Nile in Egypt in September 2021. As pent up demand has already started to surface, I anticipate 2022 will emerge as a very strong travel season and look forward to welcoming our guests onboard.”
For all 2021 Europe, Asia and Egypt cruises, guests booking by June 30, 2020, will receive 5 percent cruise savings on balcony staterooms and suites plus up to $1,500 savings per stateroom on select departures. Additionally, guests will have until September 20, 2020 to receive 5 percent Early Booking Reward for all 2022 departures*.
In addition to the early opening of 2022 bookings, AmaWaterways today also cited increased interest around its new offerings for 2021. Continuing its tradition of innovation and excellence in river cruising, the line’s 2021/2022 seasons will feature five exciting new itineraries and new pre- and post-cruise land programs in some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, including Lake Como, Italy and the French islet of St. Malo.
Impressions of the Seine & Paris sailing onboard AmaDante from Paris to Le Havre (or reverse) will take guests through the best of Northern France, including idyllic towns, beautiful gardens and Normandy’s historic hubs. Highlight pre- or post-cruise: three nights in St. Malo with a visit to the magical island monastery of Mont St. Michel.
Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing onboard AmaCello from Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles (or reverse) will awaken guests’ senses with visits to romantic cities and artistic epicenters, along with experiences such as learning to cook French fare at a culinary school in Valence. Highlight: scenic cruising and world-renowned wine tasting.
Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps sailing onboard AmaMora and AmaSerena from Amsterdam to Basel (or reverse) will enchant guests with vineyard-clad hills, charming villages and castles strung like pearls along the banks of the Rhine river. Highlight pre- or post-cruise: three nights in Lake Como, Italy.
Best of Holland & Belgium sailing round trip from Amsterdam onboard AmaSerena on five exclusive departures from May to October. Highlight: Belgium’s special gems, Ghent and Bruges.
Secrets of Egypt & The Nile sailing onboard the new AmaDahlia, this unparalleled 11-night immersive journey tempts guests with a fascinating journey to ancient civilization. This unforgettable itinerary includes four nights in Cairo, seven nights cruising between Luxor to Aswan and offers a host of exclusive experiences, such as a private tour of the tomb of Queen Nefertari and a private lunch at Abdeen Presidential Palace. Highlight post-cruise: extensions to Jordan, Israel and Dubai.
“Our intimate river cruise ships and wonderful crew will be waiting to share these beautiful new experiences with our guests,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “As Godmother of AmaKristina, I am personally thrilled to see her moving over to the Rhône in 2021 on a wonderful cruise between Lyon and Avignon. She will be joining AmaCello, who will take on a new itinerary exploring Burgundy and Provence. There is so much to look forward to, and I’m eager to welcome new and returning guests onboard to create special memories with AmaWaterways!”
* Other terms and conditions apply. Please see website for details.
To book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred Travel Advisor, call 1.800.626.0126 or visit AmaWaterways.com. Follow AmaWaterways on Facebook at Facebook.com/AmaWaterways, Instagram @AmaWaterways and Twitter @AmaWaterways.
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, Africa’s Chobe River and Egypt’s Nile River (2021). Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveler; and its award-winning dining—including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travelers and families as well as group and charter options.
With the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA, AmaWaterways has received countless honors and accolades including Cruise Critic’s 2019 Editor’s Pick Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and “Best for Active Cruisers,” 2018 AFAR Reader’s Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and inclusion of AmaMagna in 2019 TIME “World’s Greatest Places.”
Check out our interview with Rudi, explaining Adventures by Disney!
CALABASAS, CA – (May 8, 2020)
Award-winning luxury river cruise company AmaWaterways today announced a special offer inviting frontline heroes from around the world to enjoy a complimentary river cruise. As a gesture of the company’s heartfelt appreciation for the selfless sacrifices made by so many amidst these unprecedented times, all medical professionals, first responders and employees of essential services are eligible to receive a complimentary Future Cruise Certificate*, which can be used with one paying guest in the same stateroom. The certificate may be redeemed for any AmaWaterways Europe or Asia sailing through December 31, 2021 for reservations made within 90 days of the sailing date.
“There are none more deserving of a river cruise vacation than today’s frontline heroes -- the doctors, nurses, paramedics, police officers, firefighters and many other frontline professionals who are diligently helping others and inspiring hope during these challenging times,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “To express our deepest gratitude, we hope to welcome these very special individuals and their loved ones on an unforgettable river cruise as soon as we resume sailing.”
In tandem with the complimentary cruise-only offer, AmaWaterways is also extending a book now option to those eager to reconnect with family and friends and reserve their 2021 journey, with savings of up to $2,000* per stateroom, plus complimentary pre-paid gratuities. This offer can be applied to any destination for travel in 2021, including Egypt’s legendary Nile River, where the luxurious new AmaDahlia (pictured right), is scheduled to set sail beginning September 2021.
To apply for a Future Cruise Certificate or take advantage of the book now option, frontline heroes are encouraged to contact their trusted travel advisor, call 1.800.626.0126 or visit AmaWaterways.com/Hero.
*Offers are only applicable to medical professionals, first responders, and employees of essential services with valid ID. These limited time offers are not combinable with any other promotions. See website for terms & conditions that may apply.
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, Africa’s Chobe River and Egypt’s Nile River (2021). Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveler; and its award-winning dining—including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travelers and families as well as group and charter options.
With the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA, AmaWaterways has received countless honors and accolades including Cruise Critic’s 2019 Editor’s Pick Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and “Best for Active Cruisers,” 2018 AFAR Reader’s Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and inclusion of AmaMagna in 2019 TIME “World’s Greatest Places.”
Check out our interview with Rudi, explaining Adventures by Disney!
The "enhanced & extended Cruise with Confidence policy" was announced on Wednesday , where guests can cancel up to 48-hours prior to sailing in exchange for a 100% Future Cruise Credit on sailings through April 2022 for bookings made on-or-before August 1, 2020.
NEW! Lift & Shift is available by selecting a future sailing on the same itinerary type, sailing length, stateroom category, and within the same 4-week period of their original cruise date same-time-next-year. It is not required that your client rebook on the same ship or ship class.
When opting to Lift & Shift
You can opt to Lift & Shift only one time.
Guests are eligible to rebook under the Lift & Shift guidelines between now and August 1, 2020. After this point, Lift & Shift expires and is no longer eligible.
All pre-cruise purchases will be removed during the re-accommodation process and can be added to the future reservation, as desired, at prevailing rates.
If you purchased hotel accommodations or transfers with Royal Caribbean, these will be removed during the re-accommodation process, but can be re-added, if desired, once confirmed on the future ship/sailing of choice at prevailing rates.
If you booked outside of Royal Caribbean, you will need to contact the company you booked through directly.
Lift & Shift blackout dates:
Christmas, New Year’s, and Chinese New Year’s cruises are ineligible, unless you are currently confirmed on one of these sailings and wishes to take advantage of Lift & Shift to move to the same sailing next year (assuming all other qualifying criteria is met).
Guests who take advantage of the Cruise with Confidence program can get a 100% Future Cruise Credit if they decide they would like to cancel their cruise vacation due to the current global situation.
Non-Refundable Deposit bookings are eligible for Cruise with Confidence and follow the same guidelines.
If you purchased a hotel or transfer, here is how it works:
When electing for a Future Cruise Credit
If you purchased hotel accommodations or transfers with Royal Caribbean, all charges will be automatically refunded.
If you booked outside of Royal Caribbean, you will need to contact the company you booked through directly.
MIAMI, May 4, 2020
P&O Cruises today announced it has extended its voluntary pause in operations in Australia and New Zealand to August 31, 2020, in response to continuing travel restrictions due to the impact of COVID-19.
P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said everyone at P&O looked forward to resuming cruise operations as soon as it was safe to do so but it was clear an extension to the pause was necessary while Australia and New Zealand continue to make progress in combating coronavirus.
"Australia and New Zealand have led the world in flattening the COVID-19 curve, which adds to our optimism for the future. However, we also recognise that a further extension is the prudent and responsible course," Mr Myrmell said.
"In the confident knowledge that cruising will be back, this is an opportunity to update our guests on the latest itinerary plans and to thank them for their understanding and support during this period of uncertainty. We look forward to welcoming them back onboard our ships when it is safe to do so."
The changes in operations are:
Australia
The extended pause in operations will affect sailings on Pacific Dawn scheduled to depart Brisbane between June 16 – August 26, 2020. These itineraries are: W031N, W032N, W033, W034, W035, W036, W037, W038, W039, W040, W041, W042 and W043.
Pacific Explorer's cruises from Sydney will now be paused between June 24 – August 24, 2020 and this affects: X027, X028, X029, X030, X031, X032, X033, X034, X035 and X036.
New Zealand
Pacific Aria's scheduled cruises from Auckland will be postponed from July 4 – August 23, 2020: A036, A037, A038, A039, A040 and A041.
Compensation for cancelled cruises from May 5, 2020
Guests whose cruises have been impacted by the extended pause in operations are eligible for a full refund or a future cruise credit equal to the cost of their original cruise plus an onboard credit offer.
P&O will make direct contact with guests whose cruises have been affected to let them know of this development and apologise for the disruption to future holiday plans.
Travel agent commission will be fully protected for bookings paid in full as at May 4, 2020 and those cancellations that occurred within the final payment date.
MIAMI, May 4, 2020
Carnival Cruise Line just released a memo that says the following:
“Any resumption of cruise operations – whenever that may be – is fully dependent on our continued efforts in cooperation with federal, state, local and international government officials. In our continued support of public health efforts, any return to service will also include whatever enhanced operational protocols and social gathering guidelines that are in place at the time of the resumption of cruise operations.
We are committed to supporting all public health efforts to manage the COVID-19 situation and will continue to keep our guests, travel agent partners and other stakeholders informed.”
Carnival Cruise Line advised guests and travel agents today of our plan to phase in a resumption in our North American service this summer, beginning on August 1 with a total of eight ships from Miami, Port Canaveral and Galveston. In connection with this plan, our pause in operations will be extended in all other North American and Australian markets through August 31.
The key elements of this plan include:
All North American cruises from June 27 to July 31 will be cancelled.
Beginning August 1, we plan to resume cruises on the following ships:
Galveston: Carnival Dream, Carnival Freedom and Carnival Vista
Miami: Carnival Horizon, Carnival Magic and Carnival Sensation
Port Canaveral: Carnival Breeze and Carnival Elation.
Other than the above referenced service from Galveston, Miami, and Port Canaveral, all other North American and Australian homeport cruises will be cancelled through August 31.
All Carnival Spirit Alaskan cruises from Seattle will be cancelled, as well as the Carnival Spirit Vancouver-Honolulu cruise on September 25 and the Honolulu-Brisbane transpacific cruise on October 6.
All Carnival Splendor cruises in Australia from June 19 to August 31 will be cancelled.
Impacted guests and their travel advisors are being notified by email, including options for a combined future cruise credit (FCC) and onboard credit (OBC) package, or a full refund. Booked guests can make their selection online, alleviating the need to contact Carnival’s customer service center, which is still operating in a work-from-home status due to locally-imposed office closures in South Florida.
We are committed to supporting all public health efforts to manage the COVID-19 situation. We are taking a measured approach, focusing our return to service on a select number of homeports where we have more significant operations that are easily accessible by car for the majority of our guests.
We will use this additional time to continue to engage experts, government officials and stakeholders on additional protocols and procedures to protect the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve. We appreciate the understanding and support of our guests and travel agent partners and look forward to welcoming them on board as the environment for travel and tourism improves.
The cruise industry has been hit especially hard due to COVID-19. There is even speculation if the cruise lines can weather through this storm and survive. Well I’m here to say Yes, they can, and in today’s video I am going to discuss why they can! With the changes and new standards to the industry that will become the “New Norm of cruising”.
Eighteen Carnival Cruise Line ships will rendezvous in The Bahamas over the next several days as the final plans are put in place to sail nine of the ships to repatriate more than 10,000 healthy crew members who remain on board due to restrictions limiting air travel to Asia, Africa, Europe, India and Latin America.
The ships have been at various U.S. homeports provisioning supplies and bunkering fuel for their journeys. Certain crew will join ships using water shuttles off the coast of The Bahamas. Once completed, nine ships will sail to their destinations with crew members from North American-based ships on board. The remaining nine ships will spend most of their time in anchorage positions in The Bahamas or Panama and eventually all ships will reduce their crew numbers to safe operational manning levels.
“The safety and well-being of our team members continues to be a top priority. Given the pause in our operations, we are committed to getting our crew members safely home to their families. We sincerely thank them for their hard work, patience and understanding during this process. We would also like to thank the government of The Bahamas for their support of this operation, as well as the CDC, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and local port agencies,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Crew members who will be returning home have undergone a health check and cleared fit for travel by Carnival’s medical team. The company has been working closely with immigration officials in arriving countries on an efficient debarkation process. All crew members have their temperature taken daily and will do so again during the debarkation process, and follow enhanced operational protocols to ensure the health and safety of the crew.
Prior to Carnival’s pause in operations on March 13, its fleet of 27 ships had nearly 29,000 crew members on board. Since that time, Carnival has already repatriated more than 10,000 crew via flights and another 10,000 will be traveling on the nine voyages leaving this week. Approximately 6,000 additional crew will be repatriated by air charters or three ships that already departed from Australia and Long Beach. By the time all these movements are completed, the Carnival fleet will be down to approximately 3,000 crew members identified for safe operational manning, plus several hundred that will be repatriated as quickly as possible.
Port Tampa Bay donated more than 1,000 rolls of toilet paper to Feeding Tampa Bay so that the organization could distribute the much-needed supplies to its network of food banks throughout the region. The port was able to secure the toilet paper through their building supplier. A majority of Port Tampa Bay staff are currently working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, greatly reducing the need for toilet paper in the port’s administration building.
“Port Tampa Bay strives to be a good community partner and wanted to help our neighbors during this crisis. I am so pleased we were able to secure this donation to make life easier for those in need,” explained Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay CEO and President.
The port also provided rolls of toilet paper to staff in need. Port Tampa Bay staff are considered essential employees by the Department of Homeland Security and have continued to work during the pandemic to support the critical infrastructure needs of our community and region. You can learn more about their efforts here, Port Tampa Bay Remains Open for Business.
Cruise Line Also Announces Cancellation of Alaska Gulf Voyages, and Land and Sea program for First Time in Its History
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – In continued response to the impact of the COVID-19 global outbreak and the recent order from the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Princess Cruises is canceling all voyages through June 30, 2020. The cruise line had previously announced a voluntary pause for two months (60 days), impacting voyages departing March 12 to May 10, 2020.
In addition, Princess Cruises can confirm modifications to the Alaska season, which includes the cancellation of all Princess Alaska Gulf cruise and cruisetours. The five wilderness lodges, trains and buses operated by Princess in Alaska will not open this summer. We will continue round-trip sailings from Seattle to Alaska on Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess.
"This global outbreak continues to challenge our world in unimaginable ways. We recognize how disappointing this is to our long-term business partners and thousands of employees, many of whom have been with us in Alaska for decades," said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. "We hope everyone impacted by these cancellations – especially our guests, travel advisor partners, teammates, and the communities we visit – understand our decision to do our part to protect the safety, health and well-being of our guests and team. We look forward to the brighter days and smooth seas ahead for all of us."
Each ship will have a unique return to service date, based on the previously published cruise itineraries, with some modifications, departing after July 1. Details about the canceled voyages can be found here.
Princess Cruises is offering two cancellation options. Guests currently booked on these canceled voyages, who have paid in full, will receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equivalent to 100% of the cruise fare paid and, as an added incentive, an additional 25% FCC. Guests must use their credits on a cruise that sails on or before May 1, 2022. No action is required for guests to receive this offer and they will be notified by e-mail once the credits have been issued.
Alternatively, guests can receive a full refund for all monies paid in full on their booking through this online form. Requests must be received by May 31, 2020, or they will receive the Future Cruise Credit option. Guests who have not yet paid in full will receive a refund of all monies paid.
Princess will protect travel advisor commissions on bookings for cancelled cruises that were paid in full, in recognition of the critical role travel advisors play in the cruise line’s business and success.
Princess asks guests to please delay in calling the Reservation Call Center due to high call volumes. Guests and their travel advisors will be sent communications on how to manage cancellations, rebook another voyage, or request a refund.
The most current information and instructions for booked guests affected by these cancellations can be found on Information on Impacted & Cancelled Cruises.
Like so many facets of life, travel has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing our responsibility and commitment to the health, safety and well-being of our guests, our team members and the global community, Princess Cruises has made the extremely difficult decision to cancel some cruises and cruisetours. We know you were looking forward to sailing with us, and we apologize and share in your disappointment over these cancellations. You don’t need to take any action to receive the default compensation offer. You can find out details of your compensation by clicking the link that matches sail date below.
View Details & List of Affected Cruises (PDF)
View Details & List of Affected Cruises (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Future Cruise Credit (FCC)?
A Future Cruise Credit (FCC) is essentially a voucher for future travel. It has a monetary amount associated with it, and it is provided in lieu of a refund.
How long will it take to get my refund or Future Cruise Credit (FCC)?
Given the volume of requests and the care being dedicated to ensure each one is handled accurately, it will take approximately 60 days for refunds and FCCs to be processed from the date we receive a guests preference. Please allow sufficient time for us to manage this process and know we are doing everything in our power to expedite where possible.
What if I cancelled a booking on a cruise that Princess is now cancelling?
You can check the relevant cruise details on this page to see if you qualify for any additional compensation.
Can I use my FCC to pay for more than one cruise?
Yes. If the amount of your credit is greater than the cruise fare of your new booking, you can apply the remaining FCC balance on additional future bookings up to the expiration date.
How will I know when my FCC is ready?
We will automatically take care of it and email you when it’s done. You can also log into your My Princess Account on princess.com to see your FCC balance.
If I make a new booking on princess.com, how do I activate my FCC? Do I have to call into the Contact Center?
Once your FCC has been built, the website automatically applies the FCCs available when you input your name and address. You don't even need to sign on. The website will pull these credits for all the eligible names provided during the booking process, including guests 2, 3, 4, and the balance summary will show the FCC as a line-item credit. If you do not want the FCC applied, you will need to call the Contact Center to have it removed.
How are FCCs distributed across the guests on my booking?
FCCs are given per person based on the cancellation fee calculated from your individual cruise or cruisetour fare.
What if I incur extra out of pocket expenses, such as air change fees, as a result of these cancellations?
We understand this change may cost you more than just the cancellation fee. We will reimburse air change fees, increased flight costs and non-refundable transportation expenses. Other expenses will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please complete and submit the Refund Request Guide & Form and any relevant receipts and documentation for review. Guests who purchased independent vacation travel insurance, should submit their claims through their carrier before submitting a reimbursement request.
What happens to my FCC if the booking I used it on cancels?
The Future Cruise Credit will remain attached to your profile until it expires. If you cancel a booking where you used an FCC, it goes back to your profile, and you can re-use it before the expiration date. In the event the original FCC is expired, it will be reissued with a new expiration date.
If I have an onboard credit (OBC) from a Future Cruise Deposit (FCD) on a booking that is cancelled, will the OBC be honored on my next cruise?
Ask Customer Relations, the group handling all such cases.
If I have used my Princess Cruises Gift Card to pay for my cruise and opted for a refund, how can I receive it? (North American Guests Only)
If you have your original Princess Cruises Gift Card, a credit will be added back to that card, so always hold on to your gift cards even after you fully use them. If you do not have the original card, contact Princess Cruises Gift Card Customer Service at giftcardsupport@princesscruises.com or 1-855-426-0168, and a new Princess Cruises Gift Card will be sent to you.
