Two Carnival Corporation brands have extended the cancellation of sailings in Australia almost until Christmas due to ongoing uncertainty over the resumption of cruises.
Princess Cruises is cancelling cruises in and out of Australia until December 19 while P&O Cruises Australia is extending its suspension of operations through to December 17.
Princess is to move passengers booked on cancelled cruises to equivalent sailings in 2022, offer a future cruise credit or a full refund.
The extension to P&O Australia’s pause applies to cruises scheduled to depart from September 17.
The cruise industry in the country has been discussing a framework for the re-start of domestic-only cruising with government and public health authorities since last October.
P&O Cruises Australia president Sture Myrmell said: “These discussions have been underway for some time and we look forward to the opportunity to agree a pathway for starting cruises that carry Australian residents on Australian itineraries.
“This is about the livelihoods of the thousands of individuals and small businesses, many family-owned businesses, who rely on the cruise sector.
“These businesses cover a range of activities such as the supply of fresh food, entertainment, shore tours, coach operators and marine engineering services.
“They are like every business in Australia – they need certainty, and I am concerned they may find it increasingly difficult to hang on without a clear pathway forward.”
Myrmell added: “More than one million Australians cruised in Australia prior to the pandemic – and more than half of these guests sailed with P&O Cruises Australia.
“We look forward to the day when a pathway is confirmed for cruising’s return so that we can welcome everyone back on board.”