The policy applies to all cruises with sailing dates on or before April 2022 across the Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara brands.

For new and existing bookings created by 1 August 2020, guests have flexibility to cancel their cruise up to 48 hours prior to sailing and receive a full credit of the fare for a future cruise up to April 2022. 

The cruise company has also enhanced Cruise with Confidence with new rebooking options. 

The updates now available to travellers and their travel advisers include a Best Price Guarantee where guests can choose to change the price and promotional offer on their reservation up to 48 hours before their cruise.

Another offer is Lift and Shift, whereby up to 48 hours prior to sailing, travellers have the option to "lift and shift" their cruise to the same itinerary departing on a future date. The original price and promotional offer on the reservation will be protected, along with the length of the cruise and stateroom category.

"Guests are reacting positively to our Cruise with Confidence policy," said RCL chairman and chief executive Richard Fain.

"It enables them to make informed decisions and to better manage complicated travel plans during this unprecedented time of uncertainty."