Cruise lines are currently working with local authorities and have revised itineries and sailings going to and from UAE and surrounding areas.
Sources from Cruise Trade News have said that the situation is being carefully monitored and cruise lines are prioritising guest safety and where necessary, offering alternative arrangements for guests and customers with bookings.
A CLIA spokesperson said: “Cruise lines operating in the Middle East are taking a precautionary, safety-first approach in close coordination with maritime security authorities and relevant government partners. Ships in the region continue to assess the dynamic situation and to explore contingency plans to maintain the safety and comfort of guests and crew.
“Cruise ships are mobile and self-sufficient assets, enabling operators to maintain safety, operational continuity and a high-quality guest experience as the situation evolves.”
Celestyal
Affected passengers are being offered a full-refund or future cruise credit following their cancellation of two departures from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
“The safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew remains our highest priority. We regret to inform our guests and travel partners that in view of the current circumstances in the Middle East, the Celestyal Journey cruise scheduled to depart from Dubai, and the Celestyal Discovery cruise also scheduled to depart from Abu Dhabi today, have been cancelled,”
“All guests who were due to travel on the cancelled sailings will be offered the option of a full refund or a future cruise credit. We strongly encourage guests to speak directly with their travel provide regarding onward or alternative travel arrangements.
“We sincerely apologise to guests for the disruption to their travel plans and greatly appreciate their patience and understanding while we work through this evolving situation.”
MSC Cruises
“Our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew,” an MSC statement added. “The situation on board is calm, and our guests and crew are comfortable and well cared for.
“We are actively in contact with embassies and foreign offices to ensure they have the relevant information about their nationals on board and to understand any repatriation plans being developed.
“We have cancelled the upcoming cruise of MSC Euribia departing Dubai March 7, Doha March 8 and Abu Dhabi March 11. Impacted guests have already been contacted directly.
“We will provide further updates on upcoming cruises as soon as we are able as the situation is continuously evolving.”
