Carnival Cruise Line Extends Cancellations through May
by Jessica Montevago /
Carnival Cruise Line on Wednesday extended its sailing cancellations through at least May 31, 2021, as the U.S. cruise industry awaits guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A date for the return of guest cruising operations from U.S. ports has not yet been determined, Carnival said in its announcement, as cruise lines continue to wait for the CDC’s direction to begin test sailings, which are needed before commercial sailings resume.
Earlier in February, Carnival began providing more flexible options for guests booked into early summer so that they could cancel their reservation without penalty if they needed or wanted to make other plans. As it has done throughout the pause, Carnival is providing guests on cruises canceled today the choice of a future cruise credit plus onboard credit package, or a full refund.
“We continue to work on plans to resume operations and are encouraged by the focus to expedite vaccine production and distribution which are having a demonstrated impact on improving public health,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
“We appreciate the support of all of our guests, employees, and trade partners who we know are looking forward to our return.”
The cruise line has already announced a further suspension for operations in Australia recently. Carnival Splendor cruises are canceled through June 28, 2021, and Carnival Spirit cruises through September 12, 2021.
Carnival now joins Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, which includes NCL, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas, in pausing operations until June 1.