Carnival Corporation has confirmed its North American cruise line brands will extend their existing pause in operations until the new year.

The decision means the suspension of all Carnival cruise voyages between December 1st and December 31st.

“Our highest responsibility and top priorities are always compliance, protecting the environment, and the health, safety and well-being of our guests, the people in communities we touch, our crew and shoreside employees,” said Arnold Donald, chief executive of Carnival Corporation.

“We continue to work with the United States Centres for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and global government and public health authorities, as well as top medical and science experts around the globe, on a comprehensive plan for the eventual restart of cruising in North America.

“With their collective guidance, we have developed and continue to update our enhanced health and safety protocols that are in the best interest of our guests, crew and overall public health.

“Whenever we restart our cruise operations in the United States, we certainly look forward to welcoming our guests on board.”
Individually, each brand has been communicating and will continue to communicate with guests to provide updates and direction regarding affected cruise vacations.

The date for restarting cruise operations will be communicated by each respective brand and available on their websites.

The company and its brands are also notifying crew members, travel professionals and other stakeholders.

The news follows a decision yesterday from the CDC to allow a ‘no sail’ order to lapse, beginning the process of returning the sector to operation.