The brands’ “Cruise With Confidence” drive applies to all cruises with a sailing date on or before 31 July 2020.

Guests will receive a full credit for their cruise fare, usable on any future sailing of their choice in 2020 or 2021.

The policy applies to both new and existing cruise bookings and full details can be found on the respective brand websites.

Richard Fain, RCCL chairman and chief executive, said: “Our previous policy set earlier deadlines for guests to cancel their cruises and that added unnecessary stress. 

“Trying to guess a month or more in advance where areas of concern about coronavirus might be is challenging for medical experts, much less a family preparing for vacation.

“When circumstances are as fast-changing as they have been recently, it’s good to know you have the option to take a rain check.

“We think putting more control in our guests’ hands helps them make informed decisions about whether to keep their existing vacation plans or trade out for a more convenient time or itinerary.”