Royal Caribbean Group is extending its Cruise with Confidence cancellation policy through 1 September 2020.

The updated policy enhances planning flexibility by allowing cancellations up to 48 hours prior to sailing for any reason. Guests will receive a full credit for their fare, usable on any future sailing of choice in 2020 or 2021.

Company chairman and CEO Richard Fain said: “Guests are reacting positively to our Cruise with Confidence policy because it enables them to make informed decisions and to better manage complicated travel plans during this unprecedented time of uncertainty.”

The extension applies to both new and existing cruise bookings. In addition to easing concerns of booked guests, Fain says the policy enhances consumer confidence to schedule new bookings, knowing last-minute travel adjustments will incur no penalty.

“We want our guests to feel they can safely keep their existing cruise bookings or schedule new sailings because this policy gives them more freedom and flexibility,” Fain added. 

The policy applies to all cruises with sailing dates on or before 1 September 2020 and applies to the company’s global brands Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara.  

Many cruise lines have begun extending their suspension of operations as the coronavirus outbreak continues to impact the cruise and travel industries. Seabourn announced yesterday that it was extending its suspension of sailings for an additional 30 days, and P&O Cruises and Cunard are both extending their pause of operations until 15 May.

Our view:

The cruise industry is facing an unprecedented and ever-changing situation, and we are committed to keeping you informed with the most up-to-date news. However, we firmly believe that the cruise industry will bounce back. When it does, we’ll be on hand to help you get back to selling the cruises that people love.  

Visit gov.uk for the latest coronavirus travel advice and information.