P&O Cruises Australia has further extended its pause in cruise operations by three months until 17 December, 2021 because of ongoing uncertainty around a pathway to resume Australia-only cruising.
The voluntary pause applies to cruises scheduled to depart from 17 September 2021 to on, or before, the new date of 17 December, 2021.
The cruise industry has been discussing a framework for the re-start of domestic-only cruising with government and public health authorities since last October.
“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,” P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said.
“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.”
Guests whose bookings have been affected will be notified of the pause and options available either directly or via their travel agent.
Guests can track the progress of their future cruise credit or refund request via the tracking tool found on P&O’s website.
IMAGE: Charlie’s Bar on Pacific Explorer
