Thanks for nothing, COVID!

Cruise ship passengers all over the world will have to wait a while longer for their next vacation on the seas if their travels included a stop in the United States. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) just announced a significant extension to the No-Sail Order for all U.S. ports of call, until at least October 31, 2020.

The move comes at a time when the world is dealing with a global pandemic and American infection rates are elevated in many states. With a highly contagious disease like COVID-19, the recreational travel industry is taking few chances in its decisions to limit large crowds of passengers. 

cruise ship

Courtesy of Carnival

Within the full press release, the CLIA had this to say about the extended suspension:

"Despite the valuable alignment between CLIA’s previous voluntary suspension to 15 September and the CDC’s current No-Sail Order date of 30 September, we believe it is prudent at this time to voluntarily extend the suspension of U.S. ocean-going cruise operations to 31 October. This is a difficult decision as we recognize the crushing impact that this pandemic has had on our community and every other industry. However, we believe this proactive action further demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to public health and willingness to voluntarily suspend operations in the interest of public health and safety, as has occurred twice prior. CLIA cruise line members will continue to monitor the situation with the understanding that we will revisit a possible further extension on or before 30 September 2020."

Ticket holders should contact their individual cruise line for details on rescheduling their cruise or requesting a refund. Some companies, like Carnival, are offering on-board incentives to keep your travel plans with them. Passengers can request a full refund or move a canceled cruise reservation to a later date with hundreds of dollars of ship credits.

For more information about the extended No-Sail Order, see the full CLIA press release here.

What are your thoughts on this blanket suspension of U.S. cruises? Sound off in the comments!