U.S. cruise industry to extend the suspension of operations until the end of the year

On Tuesday, the United States cruise industry announced that it would extend U.S. cruise operations’ suspension until December 31.

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) stated that its members would utilize the remainder of the year to prepare for the implementation of various safety measures due to the coronavirus pandemic. The organization represents 95% of the global ocean cruise industry in the United States.

On Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posted a framework of a phased resumption of cruise ship operations after the government issued a no-sail order in March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

“Subsequent phases will include simulated voyages to test cruise ship operators’ ability to mitigate COVID-19 risk, certification for ships that meet specific requirements and a phased return to cruise ship passenger operations,” the CDC stated.