Princess Cruises is cancelling a world cruise and an extended South America itinerary due to depart early in 2021.
The Carnival Corporation brand blamed “restrictions and limitations with border and port access determined by government and health authorities and the continued uncertainty of airline travel”.
Sailings by two ships are affected – Island Princess’ 2021 world cruise from North America, including associated segments and remaining voyages sailing immediately prior, and a Circle South America sailing by Pacific Princess from Australia, including associated positioning cruises.
The company pledged to protect travel agent commissions on bookings for cancelled cruises that were paid in full, “in recognition of the critical role they play in the cruise line’s business and success”.
Princess Cruises president Jan Swartz said: “We share in the disappointment of this cancellation for guests of our world cruises because it’s a pinnacle cruise vacation experience, booked by some of our most loyal guests.”
Passengers with bookings on the cancelled voyages will receive a refundable future cruise credit equivalent to 100% of the cruise fare paid plus an additional non-refundable bonus equal to 25% of the cruise fare paid.
Refunds are being offered with a deadline of September 30 for applications to be made.