P&O Cruises Australia extends pause in operations

Monday, July 5, 2021

P&O Cruises Australia has decided to extend its pause in cruise operations by a further three months until December 17. The Carnival-owned line said the decision followed ongoing uncertainty around a pathway to resume Australia-only cruising.

The cruise industry has been discussing a framework for the re-start of domestic-only cruising with government and public health authorities since last October. Guests whose bookings have been affected will be notified of the pause and options available either directly or via their appointed travel agent.

Sture Myrmell, President, P&O Cruises Australia said in a statement that discussions have been underway for some time, and the company looks forward to the opportunity to agree a pathway for starting cruises that carry Australian residents on Australian itineraries. He mentioned that it is about the livelihoods of the thousands of individuals and small businesses, and many family-owned businesses that rely on the cruise sector.

He also shared that the businesses cover a range of activities such as the supply of fresh food, entertainment, shore tours, coach operators and marine engineering services and like every business in Australia they need certainty. He stated that he is concerned they may find it increasingly difficult to hang on without a clear pathway forward.

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