CRUISE Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced its third voluntary suspension of United States cruise operations. Ocean-going members of the trade organisation have agreed to suspend US operations until 31 Oct, a bit over a month on from the previous suspension date of 17 Sep. “We believe this proactive action...
CRUISE Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced its third voluntary suspension of United States cruise operations.
Ocean-going members of the trade organisation have agreed to suspend US operations until 31 Oct, a bit over a month on from the previous suspension date of 17 Sep.
“We believe this proactive action further demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to public health and willingness to voluntarily suspend operations in the interest of public health and safety, as has occurred twice prior,” the Association said.
However, CLIA did note should conditions in the United States change and it becomes possible to consider short, modified sailings, the Association would contemplate an earlier restart.
It is a blow for United States cruise lines, after CLIA recently backed the European Maritime Safety Agency’s guidance on the resumption of cruise ship operations on that continent.
According to CLIA’s most recent Economic Impact Study, each day of the suspension of United States cruise operations results in a loss of up to US$110 million in economic activity and 800 direct and indirect US jobs.
Although it is unclear whether or not CLIA United States’ suspension will affect Australasia, CLIA flagged if another extension was handed down in Australia and NZ past 17 Sep, job losses could reach 13,000 (CW 17 Jun).
