Seabourn has paused global operations of its five cruise ships for 30 days, effective 14 March. The decision is a voluntary response to the unpredictable circumstances evolving from the global spread of COVID-19.
The decision impacts 10 cruise itineraries in the Oceania region aboard Seabourn Sojourn, including the 38-night Australia & New Zealand Sojourn primary itinerary from Perth to Auckland that was scheduled for 22 March, and its multiple shorter segments. Two Tasmania itineraries in early April have also been pulled.
“In this unprecedented situation, we feel a pause is necessary,” said Rick Meadows, President of Seabourn. “Through this action, it is our absolute intention to convey to our guests and the travel advisor community that we have the health and safety of all who travel with us as a top priority. Our pause should also reassure the hundreds of destinations we visit each year that we want to be responsible in our operations as we bring travellers into their communities each time we visit.”
Current voyages that are underway will end by 22 March. Seabourn will be communicating these changes with all booked guests and their travel advisors.
Seabourn said it will determine the future plans of the paused ships once all guests are returned to their homes. “A small group of crew will be onboard to keep vital ship operations running,” the luxury cruise line said.
Seabourn guests on impacted voyages will receive a 125% refund of the fare paid in the form of a future cruise credit, which can be applied toward any future cruise through 31 December, 2021. For guests who do not opt to choose the 125% future cruise credit, a 100% refund of the fare paid will be reimbursed to the original form of payment.
Travel advisor commissions on bookings cancelled that were paid in full – and for the total amount of the future cruise credits when guests rebook – will be protected.
Guests and their travel advisors will be sent communications on how to manage cancellations and desired compensation. Information and instructions for requesting a refund will be available online at seabourn.com
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