The company apologised to impacted guests and has offered several rebooking and compensation options in return. No further cancellations are planned. 

Riviera has also not been able to offer a full a la carte dining service on some sailings and offered passengers a free drinks package and partial refund, or a discount on a future cruise.

However, a Riviera Travel spokesperson said the feedback the company has received from guests onboard is currently "very positive" in regards to the line’s response and the overall cruise experience.

The situation is said to be "improving rapidly" and Riviera expects to be able to offer its full a la carte dining experience by next week.

"Sadly, it is not just in the UK that travel businesses have found it challenging to recruit staff, with delays processing visas for crew, and higher than expected Covid-related absences," the spokesperson added.

"We’re very sorry to all affected guests, and continue to work hard to put things right. We’d like to thank them once again for their understanding and patience, which has been greatly appreciated.

"We would also like to thank our travel agent partners for all their support, and are keeping them and their customers updated."