Norwegian Cruise Line has cancelled all Asia sailings for the next eight months on newly refurbished ship Norwegian Spirit.
A 24-day itinerary departing from Cape Town on March 22 travelling to Singapore has been been replaced by a 27-day sailing to Piraeus in Greece.
All of the 2,000-passenger ship’s cruises in Asia between April 15 and December 7 have been dropped and full refunds being offered, along with 10% future cruise credit.
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The cancellations follow increasing travel restrictions being imposed by countries in Asia which are refusing to allow cruise ships to dock amid the coronavirus outbreak.
A spokesperson from NCL said: “Due to growing concerns regarding coronavirus infections in China, Norwegian Spirit’s scheduled itineraries to Asia have been modified.
“The 24-day voyage departing from Cape Town, South Africa on March 22, 2020 will no longer conclude in Singapore. Instead, the itinerary has been revised to a 27-day sailing ending in Piraeus, Greece. Guests who choose to sail the modified itinerary will receive a 50% refund to the original form of payment. Alternatively, booked guests have the option to cancel by Feb. 14 and receive a full refund.
“All Norwegian Spirit Asia itineraries from April 15 through Dec. 7, 2020 have been cancelled. Guests booked on these sailings will receive a full refund, as well as a 10% future cruise credit.
“In both instances, if airfare was purchased independently, Norwegian Cruise Line will cover up to $300 per person for any air change fees.
“While it is always our intention to maintain original itineraries, at times, unforeseen circumstances require us to make modifications. We appreciate our guests’ patience during this time.”
A $100 million refit of Norwegian Spirit in dry dock in Marseille was delayed this week due to strike action in France with a preview sailing cancelled.
A revised preview sailing is due to start on Friday from Civitavecchia, the port for Rome.