The crew on board Saga Spirit of Discovery showed their support for the NHS and the hard work of healthcare workers during the coronavirus pandemic with a special gesture last week.

The crew gathered on the hull of the boutique cruise ship, which is currently moored at Tilbury docks following the global suspension of sailings, and lined up together to spell out the letters of the NHS so that anyone flying above could see.

The British cruise line also proudly displayed the Union Jack flag and Saga’s logo, ‘Keep doing’.

Saga was understood to have been in talks with the Government and to have offered two of its cruise ships to be used as floating hospitals for coronavirus-infected patients back in March.

Saga recently announced that it would be extending its cruise and travel operations until 1 June 2020.

A Saga spokesperson said: “Throughout the pandemic, the health and safety of our customers and colleagues has been our top priority.

“Given the current circumstances associated with covid-19, we have made the decision to extend the suspension of our cruise and travel operations until 1 June 2020.

“We are in the process of contacting the guests who were due to travel with us at this time to explain the options available to them.

“As soon as travel advice changes, we are ready to resume operations and look forward to welcoming our guests once restrictions are lifted.”

Last week (10 April), the CDC announced that it would be extending its no sail order for all cruise ships for up to 100 days. 

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 updates.