Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced that all member ocean cruise lines are pausing sailings over the next 30-60 days. For most cruise lines, the cancellations will span the next 30 days.
Major cruise lines that are members of CLIA include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises.
The temporary suspension took effect at 12 a.m. EDT on March 14. CLIA ocean-going cruise lines are focused on the safe and smooth return of those currently at sea onboard ships that will be affected by this decision.
“We do not take this decision lightly, and we want the traveling public to know in no uncertain terms the commitment of this industry to putting people first,” said Adam Goldstein, CLIA Global Chairman.
“During this time, we will continue to work with the CDC and others to prepare for resumption of sailings when it is appropriate. We know the travel industry is a huge economic engine for the United States and when our ships once again sail, our industry will be a significant contributor to fueling the economic recovery.”
The cruise industry is a vital artery for the U.S. economy, supporting over 421,000 American jobs, with every 30 cruisers supporting one U.S. job, and annually contributes nearly $53 billion to the U.S. economy. Cruise activity supports travel agencies, airlines, hotels and a broad supply chain of industries that stretches across the United States.
If you are booked on one of the cancelled sailings, contact your local travel agent or the cruise line for the compensation that they are offering.
