Major companies in the cruise industry have today donated to bushfire relief charities to help fire-devastated communities in Australia.

The lines have also united with other tourism sectors in planning and donating for the recovery of communities impacted by fires, the industry trade body, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has said.

Carnival Corporation has announced that the corporation’s philanthropic arm, Carnival Foundation, and five of its global cruise line brands together with the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation have pledged over $1.25 million (£964 million) to support disaster recovery efforts.

“Our cruise lines carried hundreds of thousands of Aussies and international guests on voyages this summer, and this gesture is a sign of solidarity with the local community,” said Carnival Australia president Sture Myrmell.

“As a cruise shipping organisation with close ties to Australian communities developed over many years, we have been shocked by the devastation from this ongoing disaster.

“Communities affected by the bushfire crisis are in immediate need, and we are pleased to be able to contribute in a way that ensures help can be delivered where it is needed most and as quickly as possible.

“The contribution is being made on behalf of all of our guests who are no doubt equally shocked and concerned at what has happened to their fellow Australians.”

CLIA has confirmed that all major cruise lines in the region are operating as scheduled and that most cruise destinations are unaffected by the fires.

“Cruise lines are monitoring the situation in Australia closely and if required can adjust itineraries to avoid areas affected by fire,” said CLIA UK & Ireland director Andy Harmer.

“The safety of guests is always paramount. Cruise lines will also consider whether itinerary changes are necessary to avoid placing pressure on regions dealing with emergencies.”

Major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are unaffected by fires, other than periods of smoke haze, as are most other cruise ports around Australia.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd has also committed $250,000 AUD (£132,868) to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund to support emergency relief efforts.

“We are saddened by the devastation caused by the ongoing bushfires in Australia,” said Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd president and CEO Frank Del Rio.

“Our  $250,000 AUD donation to the Australian Red Cross will go directly to relief and recovery efforts for those affected by these historic fires.”

For information on the Australian Red Cross, its recovery efforts and ways to provide support, visit redcross.org.au/.