P&O Cruises Australia has extended its voluntary pause in operations in both Australia and New Zealand to 31 August 2020, in response to continuing travel restrictions due to the impact of coronavirus (Covid-19).

The extended pause in operations will affect 13 sailings on Pacific Dawn scheduled to depart Brisbane between 16 June and 26 August 2020; 10 Pacific Explorer sailings from Sydney between 24 June and 24 August 2020; and six Pacific Aria cruises from Auckland between 4 July and 23 August.

P&O Cruises president Sture Myrmell said everyone at the cruise line looked forward to resuming cruise operations as soon as it was safe to do so, but it was clear an extension to the pause was necessary while Australia and New Zealand continue to make progress in combating coronavirus.

He added: “Australia and New Zealand have led the world in flattening the Covid-19 curve, which adds to our optimism for the future. However, we also recognise that a further extension is the prudent and responsible course.

“In the confident knowledge that cruising will be back, this is an opportunity to update our guests on the latest itinerary plans and to thank them for their understanding and support during this period of uncertainty.

“We look forward to welcoming them back on board our ships when it is safe to do so.”

Guests whose cruises have been impacted by the extended pause in operations are eligible for a full refund or a future cruise credit equal to the cost of their original cruise plus an onboard credit offer.

P&O Cruises will make direct contact with guests whose cruises have been affected to let them know of this development and apologise for the disruption to future holiday plans.

Travel agent commission will be fully protected for bookings paid in full as of 4 May 2020 and those cancellations that occurred within the final payment date.

Visit pocruises.com.au for more information.