Since announcing our further pause in operations a couple of weeks ago the COVID-19 situation has evolved further still. That’s why, with the current lockdown in place, and Government guidelines around the world advising against travel, it is necessary to extend the pause in our operations until the end of July. That is, all sailings (except QE) up to and including July 31, 2020.
For Queen Elizabeth, maintaining a shorter summer season in Alaska would unfortunately not make these voyages viable, so we are taking the practical decision to cancel her entire Alaska season and all departures up to and including 8 September, 2020.
As heroes of ‘safe and well’, we need to continue to do our part in the containment of COVID-19 – this includes protecting the health and safety of colleagues and our Guests which is our #1 priority.
Next steps
Supporting our colleagues on board and our Guests at this time is our absolute priority and we’ve been in touch with updates on what’s happening and what this means for them. We’re also in the process of reaching out to our partners across all areas of the business, our travel agents, suppliers and port agents, to let them know about this extension.
Pending a little more clarity on the longer term impact of COVID-19 and timing on the world’s return to normality we are working hard, given what we know currently, on a plan for future itineraries.
As there is a temporary slowdown of work by Meyer Werft in Germany we are currently working through the plan for Iona’s final outfitting and re-scheduled delivery date.
Taking care of our colleagues
We are continuing to focus efforts on our crew’s welfare and wellbeing, and on getting them back home where it’s possible to do so.
Our Brand Presidents Simon Palethorpe and Paul Ludlow have recorded a new video update for crew which you can watch below:
You can also watch our videos to Guests on the P&O Cruises and Cunard websites.
Stay safe and well
Once again, thank you for your patience, understanding and everything you are doing as we seek to do the right thing for you and our Guests to limit the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19). To protect the health of you, your colleagues and your loved ones, please continue to adhere to Government guidance on COVID-19.
We’re continuing to commit all our resources, energy and time to weather this storm and come out stronger than ever, together.
We understand that you may have questions and have updated our Frequently Asked Questions on The Insider with more information about this so please continue to use the COVID-19 pages to stay up-to-date.
The Insider is regularly updated with the most recent Carnival UK COVID-19 guidance and news, so please use this as the single source of truth.