Despite the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “no sail order” expiring on 24 July, Clia said it was becoming “increasingly clear that more time will be needed to resolve barriers to resumption in the United States”.

“Although we are confident that future cruises will be healthy and safe, and will fully reflect the latest protective measures, we also feel that it is appropriate to err on the side of caution to help ensure the best interests of our passengers and crew members,” Clia said in a statement issued on Friday (19 June).

“The additional time will also allow us to consult with the CDC on measures that will be appropriate for the eventual resumption of cruise operations.”

The voluntary pause applies to all Clia members to which the no sail order applied (vessels with capacity to carry 250 persons or more). 

Clia said its members would “continually evaluate the evolving situation” and decide if a further extension would be needed. It also stressed the economic benefit of the cruise sector upon the US economy – with the industry supporting more than 421,000 jobs in 2018.

Each day of the suspension of cruise operations in the US is resulting in a total loss of approximately $110 million in economic activity and up to 800 jobs, Clia added.