P&O Cruises has cancelled all international sailings up to and including September due to the ongoing uncertainty around travel during the pandemic.
The cruise line has cancelled all sailings on Arcadia, Aurora, Azura and Ventura until the end of August 2021, as well as all sailings on Britannia and new ship Iona until the end of September 2021.
P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said in a statement that the company was "in very close contact with the UK Government and associated bodies as we monitor the latest situation and guidance on travel" and that "from the moment we see travel restrictions lifting we will begin the significant logistical task to re-start our operations".
He added that it could take some time for the first ship to return to service, with a phased return for the rest of the fleet.
The company has said that all affected guests will automatically receive a Future Cruise Credit worth 125% of what they paid, which can be redeemed against any new booking made by December 2021 for any cruise on sale at the time of booking.
Those who would prefer a full refund can request this through pocruises.com until December 2021.
It's another setback for the launch of new ship Iona, which was originally due to make her debut in 2020.
The cruise line is however looking to launch a number of UK cruises for the summer, dependent on restrictions at the time. The company hasn't shared too much about the itineraries although it has said these will span short breaks and week-long sailings.
Further information is expected later this month when the UK cruises are due to go on sale.
At the time of writing the Foreign Office continues to advise against cruise ship travel during the pandemic, and there are ongoing travel restrictions around the world.
As a result, cruise lines have either cancelled sailings or temporarily suspended their operations - we have a guide to when cruise lines plan to restart, with some hopeful for a return in June.
Are you eager to get back on cruise holidays? Let us know in the comments below.
