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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Thomas Molloy

Coronavirus fears have ruined my dream cruise - but 'it's a relief to be honest'

A cruise line accused of "keeping customers in the dark" about the impact of Coronavirus have cancelled their upcoming trips in Asia.

Earlier this week, Bolton hairdresser John-Lee Guy was one of the customers to raise concerns about Norwegian Cruise Line's upcoming sailing from Singapore on February 27.

John-Lee had booked the dream holiday to celebrate his 40th birthday and visit family in the Seychelles, along with his partner Craig Hartley.

He branded the company as "irresponsible" and asked them to make a decision, having cancelled their previous cruise from Singapore on Monday.

NCL have now confirmed that the February 27 cruise and all other voyages in Asia have been cancelled. Customers have been given a full refund and future credit towards another cruise.

John-Lee Guy (right) with his partner Craig Hartley (Kelvin Lee Gray)

A spokesman said: "Out of an abundance of caution and as a result of the uncertainty surrounding port entry and berthing availability in various destinations in Asia, we have made the prudent decision to cancel all voyages in Asia.

"As such, Norwegian Jade’s February 27 2020 sailing from Singapore has been cancelled.

"All guests currently booked on this sailing will receive a full refund as well as a future cruise credit worth 25 pc towards their next cruise this year.

"While it is always our intention to maintain original itineraries, at times, unforeseen circumstances require us to make modifications. We appreciate our guests’ patience during this time and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience."

Not determined to let it ruin his birthday, John-Lee is now looking to book a last-minute holiday to somewhere other than the Far East.

He said: "I'm really glad actually. It's a relief to be honest.

"I'm just worked up now about trying to find another holiday because obviously it's my 40th and I want to go away. I don't think I'll be going East, though!"

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