Norwegian marks July 1 as possible date to resume cruises
Norwegian Cruise Lines has become the latest cruise company to extend suspension of sailing through the end of June and now says it currently plans to resume embarkations on July 1.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NYSE: NCLH), which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, said Friday, April 24 that it was expanding its previously announced suspension of global cruise voyages to include voyages embarking between May 11 and June 30, 2020 for its three cruise brands due to the coronavirus crisis.
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Rigorous health and safety protocols
“We are committed to taking all appropriate actions to combat the spread of COVID-19 and as such, have extended our global voyage suspension through June 30. We continue to work closely and in partnership with the U.S. CDC, global public health authorities and local, state and federal governments to build upon our already rigorous health and safety protocols to ensure that our brands are ready to safely resume operations with these new protocols in place,” said Frank Del Rio, president, and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
“Our teams are working around the clock to do what is right by our loyal guests and valued travel partners and we greatly appreciate their understanding as we continue to adapt to the ever-evolving global health environment.”
Peace of Mind program
Norwegian is offering guests who had a reservation on one of the suspended cruises a future cruise credit of 125% on future cruises, which can be used on any Norwegian Cruise Line sailing up until the end of 2022. It is also offering an additional 20% discount if you use your future cruise credit to book a new cruise by May 15, 2020, for cruises embarking from October 1, 2020, through to December 31, 2022.
As part of its Peace of Mind program, all cruises through September 30, can be canceled up to 48 hours prior, while all cruises October 1 and beyond can be canceled up to 4 months before sailing with a full refund under the company’s regular cancellation program.
The company has also extended its Free at Sea program to all bookings. The program includes – subject to conditions – in addition to the above discounts, free open bar, and free specialty dining, kids sail free, shore excursion credit, and free Wi-Fi.
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