Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced that its oceangoing cruise line members have opted to voluntarily suspend U.S. cruise operations until at least Oct. 31, 2020.
The news comes on the heels of recently reported COVID-19 cases onboard vessels from four global small-ship operators: Norway-based Hurtigruten, Paul Gauguin Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club and UnCruise Adventures.
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CLIA released the following statement regarding the decision:
“Despite the valuable alignment between CLIA’s previous voluntary suspension to 15 September and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s current No-Sail Order date of 30 September, we believe it is prudent at this time to voluntarily extend the suspension of U.S. ocean-going cruise operations to 31 October.
“This is a difficult decision, as we recognize the crushing impact that this pandemic has had on our community and every other industry. However, we believe 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.
“CLIA cruise line members will continue to monitor the situation with the understanding that we will revisit a possible further extension on or before 30 September 2020. 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.”
The Details
Cruise Lines International Association
www.cruising.org
