P&O Cruises has announced an extension of the pause in its operations until October 15, 2020, while it works in close coordination with all public health agencies to establish new health and safety protocols within the company.
P&O Cruises President Paul Ludlow said: “As a company, our operational focus is not on ‘when can we resume sailing’, but rather ‘how can we develop a protocol that keeps our crew and passengers safe and comfortable while they enjoy an amazing vacation.’”.
“We are working with top-level organizations, such as Public Health England (PHE) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to review every detail and establish protocols. Our goal is to adopt best practices in COVID-19 management within the travel industry.”.
“Unfortunately, as the world continues to adapt to this global crisis, we have made the difficult decision to extend our pause in operations for all departures until October 15, 2020 inclusive.”.
All those with reservations for these cancelled voyages will receive a Future Cruise Credit of 125% of the amount paid. Ludlow continued: “Our customers will be able to redeem their Future Cruise Credit online, without needing to contact us, through our website.”.
P&O Cruises has also confirmed that the Future Cruise Credit can be redeemed until the end of 2021 and can be used to add a second cabin to any existing booking, or it can be gifted or transferred to another person. This option will also be available until the end of December 2021. “P&O Cruises is also offering its customers the option to reserve their trip with a 5% deposit for new bookings made between May 27 and June 29, 2020.
Regarding health and safety protocols, Ludlow said: “For years we have adhered to many of the measures now considered advisable for social gathering places, such as hand sanitizing stations and rigorous cleaning and disinfection procedures. We have also been ahead of these measures for years by requiring health forms from passengers and having an onboard medical center on every ship with 24/7 medical care. During the recent crisis, we added a health screening upon embarkation, with thermal scanning of guests and crew.”.
“Together with the rest of the world, we will adapt. We will work closely with medical experts and authorities worldwide to help us determine the best way forward while fulfilling our greatest responsibility: the health, safety, and well-being of our passengers, crew, and the communities we visit, along with protecting the environment.”.
“We have always prided ourselves on our health and cleanliness standards before Covid-19, but when we return we will do so with enhanced protocols, ensuring high levels of disinfection in public areas, crew areas and all surfaces on board, as well as safety measures in food and beverage service, entertainment and experiences on board and ashore.
"When the time is right, we will be ready to resume our work of providing amazing vacations for our passengers.".
