Genoa, March 13, 2020 – Costa Cruises announced today that it will voluntarily suspend global operations of its ships until April 3.This decision was made because the global spread of COVID-19, declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, is requiring extraordinary measures and the decisive contribution of all involved to stop the outbreak.
“As an industry leader, we understand it is our responsibility to be ready to make tough decisions when necessary,” said Neil Palomba, President of Costa Cruises. “At Costa, the health and safety of our guests and crew members is our number one priority. These unprecedented circumstances now require unprecedented solutions to ensure that people around the world stay healthy.”
“Traveling the world aboard a Costa ship and exploring new destinations and cultures is always an enriching experience. We have been making this dream a reality for millions of people for over 70 years, and we will be ready to share these happy experiences with all our passengers again very soon,”concluded Neil Palomba.
In recent months, Costa Cruises had increased its preventative measures and has been strictly following WHO guidelines. However, the logistics inherent in global travel now present more challenges than ever, and with the restrictions adopted by various countries, the safe and normal development of operations has become much more complicated. In an effort to contain the health emergency, Costa Cruises had already revised the itineraries of ships calling at Italian ports until April 3, as well as suspended operations in China since January 25.
Cruises currently in service will end to facilitate guests' disembarkation and return home. Costa Cruises is informing travel agents and passengers who were scheduled to embark on a Costa ship, who will receive a voucher to choose a new cruise date, or a full refund.
**Expected return to operations dates: April 3 Costa Magica (from Barcelona); April 4 Costa Smeralda, Costa Pacifica; April 5Costa Luminosa, Costa Diadema; April 8Costa Fortuna; April 10 Costa Favolosa, Costa Mediterranea; May 3 Costa Fascinosa.
