Carnival pushes restart back to September

Carnival Cruise Line has extended the pause on its cruises in North America back to September 30.

“During this unprecedented pause in our business, we have continued to assess the operating environment and confer with public health, government and industry officials,” Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy told booked guests and travel agents in a letter sent today.

“We have watched with great interest as commerce, travel and personal activities have begun to start back up, and once we do resume service, we will take all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we bring our ships to in order to maintain public confidence in our business.  Nevertheless, we apologize for disrupting your vacation plans and appreciate your patience as we work through these decisions,” Duffy added.

Carnival initially announced a voluntary 30-day pause in operations on March 13, and has now extended that pause three times. Carnival is giving guests who wish to move their booking to a later date a rebooking offer that combines a Future Cruise Credit and  either a $300 or $600 Onboard Credit.  Guests, as always, have the option to receive a full refund.

“We appreciate the patience and support of our loyal guests, and recognize how much they want to get back to cruising.  When the time is right, our outstanding onboard team will be waiting to welcome them back and give them the great vacation that they deserve,” said Duffy.