One of the top questions I get from my clients is, “when will cruises resume?” Today the cruise trade group announced that cruises out of U.S. ports will be suspended until September 15th.
TheVerge.com is reporting, “The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced that its members are voluntarily suspending operations out of US ports through September 15th, 2020. Its members include Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise line and as CNBCnotes, the extension goes beyond the CDC’s July 24th “no-sail” order. Carnival had previously announced it intended to resume operations in the US on August 1st.
The CLIA’s statement says in part that “although we had hoped that cruise activity could resume as soon as possible after that date, it is increasingly clear that more time will be needed to resolve barriers to resumption in the United States.” It’s reflective of the harsh reality that the US has not made as much progress as other countries in tamping down the spread of COVID-19.”
Just like other cruisers, I was hoping to board a Carnival cruise on August 1st, but unfortunately, we will have to wait until September, or later.
In addition to this sad news, Cruise Radio reported, “Only a few days after Carnival Corporation CEO Arnold Donald said there would definitely “be an acceleration of retirement of ships,” financial documents revealed that at least six ships will be leaving the fleet in the coming days.
In addition to the six ships which already are definitely leaving various Carnival Corporation brands, Donald has indicated that there are negotiations in place which could see more vessels exiting as well.”
I think that it’s important to keep the faith regarding cruises. I have sailed over 150 days on Holland America Line, over 75 days on Carnival, and many days on other cruise lines. I love cruising because of my years sailing on the ocean during my U.S Navy days. I’m looking forward to cruising again soon.
Be sure to check out my videos on YouTube by searching “Scott Lara” and TheCruiseGenius Facebook page.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads!
