Royal Caribbean Cancels 10 Dec Cruise & Will Only Resume Sailing From 14 Dec

When the cruise to nowhere was first announced, it was received favourably by bored Singaporeans looking to stretch their legs.

Unfortunately, for those who’ve managed to book the Royal Caribbean cruise for 10 Dec 2020, that trip is not going to happen.

Royal Caribbean Cancels 10 Dec Cruise & Will Only Resume Sailing From 14 Dec

On 9 Dec 2020, Royal Caribbean announced that they’re going to cancel the cruise on 10 Dec 2020.

Just a day before the cancellation, Royal Caribbean had initially said that the cruise on 10 Dec 2020 will go on as usual.

The reason cited for the sudden change of decision is due to “an overabundance of caution”, the cruise operator revealed.

“At Royal Caribbean International, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew are our top priorities.

“In an overabundance of caution, we’ve decided to cancel our upcoming December 10th, 2020 sailing.

“We know how much time and effort go into planning your holiday and we’re terribly sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience.” – Royal Caribbean  Emailed Statement Via Todayonline

Refunds + Future Credits

While nothing can be done for those who’ve already taken leave to go for the cruise, they can, at least, be happy with a full refund on the cruise trip, as well as an additional 25% of cruise credit for future trips.

The full refund also consists of money paid for pre-purchased add-ons such as the internet, F&B or upgrades.

The 25% is based on the total fare paid for the cancelled trip and is valid for 1 year after issue.

They will be sent to customers via email by 22 Jan 2021.

In addition, Royal Caribbean says they’re going to start processing the refunds immediately and that it usually takes 45 days.

For customers with enquiries, you can reach them via your travel advisor or call in to 6675 0419.

Cruise Passenger Tests Positive For Covid-19 On Royal Caribbean Cruise 

On 9 Dec 2020, a cruise passenger onboard the Royal Caribbean Quantum On The Seas, an 83-year-old man, tested positive for Covid-19.

As part of the safety framework in place for cruises to nowhere, cruises can only operate at a maximum capacity of 50%.

Still, even at a reduced capacity, the Quantum of the Seas is carrying 1,680 guests and 1,148 crew members. 

Immediately after the detection, the cruise was cut short and returned to Singapore.

The passenger’s close contacts tested negative for Covid-19.

In the late hours of 9 Dec 2020, the Ministry of Health (MOH) reported that the 83-year-old man tested negative twice for Covid-19 after the initial positive test.

He had his original sample sent to the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) for another test and had another sample taken from him as well.

Both tests came back negative.

They will take one more sample today to confirm his Covid-19 status.

It was also added that all passengers who returned from the cruise were required to undergo Covid-19 tests before they’re allowed to leave the cruise terminal.

Now, before you think, “So all that hoo-ha for what could possibly be a false-positive test?!”

Just know that it’s Singapore’s tendency to better be safe than sorry that resulted in something such as a global meeting to stabilise the economy of the world taking place in Singapore next year.

Featured Image: Igor Grochev / Shutterstock.com