While the restart of international travel is set for next month, cruising within Australia still remains unclear, forcing Royal Caribbean to cancel its Ovation of the Seas 2021-2022 season.
While airlines, tour operators and travellers celebrate the return of international travel, cruise lines and keen cruisers in Australia remain frustrated at the lack of clarity for the #ArrivalRevival of both domestic and international cruising.
Due to this, Royal Caribbean says it has made the decision to cancel all sailings on Ovation of the Seas from Sydney, 13 Dec 2021 through 31 Mar 2022.
“We know many of our guests look forward to a return to cruising and we regret the inconvenience this may cause. Booked guests and travel partners impacted will be contacted with further details.” the cruise company said in a statement.
“As Australia opens up, we are committed to progressing the proactive conversations with federal and state governments on recommencing cruising in Australia and hope to provide an update soon.”
Ovation of the Seas, which holds 5000 passengers at a time, was set to sail from Sydney between December and March, offering a mix of 2-to-10-night domestic sailings visiting some of the country’s most famous cities and regions.
“We know this news is disappointing, and we’re sorry for the impact to your holiday plans,” RCI said.
“We appreciate your patience, understanding and continued loyalty. We look forward to welcoming you back on-board soon.”
Australia’s cruise ban on foreign-flagged vessels is currently in place until December 17.
Royal Caribbean says when cruising returns, double vaccinations will be mandatory for all passengers and crew, as well as masks and negative PCR tests before boarding.
Click here or visit your travel advisor for more information.
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