P&O announced an extension of its “rolling pause” in cruises across Australia and New Zealand to 29 October – an extension of 42 days on the previously announced suspension for the region. 

The line also said it planned to resume its next season of departures from Auckland in 2021. P&O’s other cruises are currently paused until 15 October. 

Sture Myrmell, P&O Cruises’ president, said: “We will continue to use this time to liaise with authorities, public health experts and others in the industry to develop enhanced public health measures for when the time is right to resume sailing.”

All affected guests can opt for a full refund or a future cruise credit with “bonus” onboard credit. P&O said it would also pay refunds back through agents for trade sales with commission “protected” for all bookings on cancelled itineraries.

Sister brand Princess said it was now “pausing” all planned trips in and out of Australia on Majestic Princess, Regal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Sea Princess and Sun Princess up to the end of October.

While all Princess itineraries in Asia, Caribbean, California, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, South America/Antarctica, Japan and Tahiti/South Pacific are now paused until 15 December.

Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises’ president, added: “We share in our guests’ disappointment in cancelling these cruises. We look forward to the days when we can return to travel and the happiness it brings to all who cruise.” 

Princess guests on affected cruises will receive a future cruise credit for 100% of the fare paid plus a 25% “bonus”.