Norwegian Cruise Line has extended its Peace of Mind cancellation policy into 2021 as well as a protracted final payment schedule “in an effort to instill consumer confidence and inspire guests to transform their destination daydreams into vacation reality”.

Guests sailing on cruises booked by 31 August 2020 with embarkation dates from 1 Jan 2021 to 31 October 2021 can now cancel their cruise 15 days prior to departure.

Those who take advantage of NCL’s Peace of Mind policy will receive a full refund in the form of a future cruise credit which may be applied to any sailing through 31 December 2022.

The policy, which also allows guests to cancel up to 48 hours prior to embarkation for 2020 sailings, was initially launched in March 2020 following the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.

In addition, the company has introduced a new final payment schedule for all 2020 voyages which requires payment 60 days prior to embarkation versus the standard 120 days.

Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief executive officer, Harry Sommer, said: “Now more than ever, travelers are looking for freedom and flexibility and that is what Norwegian Cruise Line is all about.

“Our Guests First philosophy compels us to put guests at the heart of every decision, which is exactly what we are doing by enabling them to cancel very close-in to their anticipated embarkation date and by delaying final payment to just 60 days prior to departure.

“We recognise the uncertainty we are all feeling right now so it is important guests know that we have their best interests in mind.”

The company recently unveiled new voyages with itineraries sailing to all seven continents through April 2023, including more than 20 new ports of call.

Sommer added: “We are optimistic about the future and remain committed to the safety, health and well-being of our guests, crew and the communities we visit.

“We recently announced our participation in the Healthy Sail Panel comprised of leading experts working to help ensure cruising remains one of the safest and most beautiful ways to see the world.

“With all voyages currently suspended through Oct. 31, 2020, we are taking the time to focus on health and safety standards by continuing to lead and innovate, as we have done for the last 53 years.”

For more information, visit ncl.com/peaceofmind.