In the latest of a series of videos P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said the line’s focus was on how it could keep guests and crew safe, as opposed to when it can resume sailing. 

“We are working with government and industry bodies at the highest possible level, such as Public Health England and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to review every aspect of a holiday with us and establish a framework of policies and procedures,” he said. 

“Our aspiration is to be adopting best practice in managing Covid-19 within the travel industry.” 

All guests who were booked on these cancelled sailings will receive an enhanced Future Cruise Credit, which gives an additional 25% on top of the amount paid for the holiday.

Following feedback from guests P&O Cruises has also confirmed that the Future Cruise Credit, which may be held until the end of 2021, may be put against any holiday on sale at that time.

FCCs may also be used to upgrade or for a second cabin for any existing booking and also may be gifted or transferred to someone else. This option will also be available until the end of December 2021.

P&O Cruises is also introducing a 5% deposit for new bookings made between 27 May and 29 June 2020. The offer is available on applicable Early Saver and Select Price holidays of 19 nights or fewer from January 2021. 

Ludlow added: “We want to apologise once again to those guests who wait for refunds, particularly at a time of financial constraints, however the new technology we have in place is rapidly improving things and we continue to make further progress on a daily basis.”  

Expanding on the likely new hygiene protocols, Ludlow said: “We have for years had in place many of the protocols now considered advisable for other social gathering venues, such as hand-sanitizing stations and rigorous cleaning and disinfecting procedures. 

“We also have for years gone beyond those protocols by having guests complete a health declaration form and having a comprehensive medical facility on board each ship providing 24/7 medical care and treatment. During the recent crisis, we added robust health screening upon embarkation, starting with thermal scanning of guests and crew.
 
“Along with the rest of the world, we will adapt. We will work closely with medical experts and global authorities to help us determine the best way to move forward while honouring our highest responsibility – the health, safety, and wellbeing of our guests, crew and communities we visit, along with compliance and environmental protection.

“We have always taken such pride in our standards of cleanliness and hygiene before Covid-19, but when we return there will be enhanced protocols approved by hospitality and national public health authorities. This will ensure we continue to have in place high levels of cleanliness across every single aspect of public areas, crew living areas and every item of furniture in cabins and everywhere on board as well as approved safety standards for the service of food and drink; entertainment and experiences on board and on shore.

“When the time is right, we will be ready to resume our tradition of providing amazing holiday experiences for our guests.”