Disney Cruise Line extends suspension of COVID-19 pandemic

Disney Cruise Line on Wednesday announced another extension of its cruise suspension as it works to meet government demands to resume carrying passengers.

The cruise line has canceled all crossings through March, including scheduled trips for the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

Some trips over seven nights that had been scheduled for the Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy in June and July have also been canceled.

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“Our Disney Cruise Line team remains focused on the health and well-being of our guests and team members,” the company said in its announcement. “We are carefully preparing for a return to service following guidelines issued by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

Customers who have already paid in full for canceled cruises will be able to choose a full refund or credit for a future trip. Customers who have booked on canceled cruises but have not fully paid will be automatically refunded. Disney has said it will send an email to affected guests.

Disney Cruise has canceled all sailings through March, including scheduled trips from Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. (David Roark / Disney)

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Disney has added new options for travelers to change their travel dates or receive refunds in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted all U.S. cruises for months last year. The company has relaxed cancellation fees for cruises through July and customers can change their departure date up to 15 days before departure for trips booked before January 31. All customers with health concerns related to coronavirus may also receive a full refund at no cost.

The CDC issued a conditional navigation order last fall that allows cruise ships to resume service in U.S. waters, but cruise lines must first demonstrate they can operate with health safety protocols by place that will protect passengers and crew from COVID-19.

Some trips over seven nights that had been scheduled for the Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy in June and July have also been canceled. (iStock)

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Still, the CDC believes that cruise ship travel poses a “very high level of COVID-19” risk. The health agency recommends people avoid it, and anyone traveling on a cruise ship should get tested for COVID-19 between three and five days after their trip and self-isolate at home for a week. after the trip, even if his test is negative.

Of course, Disney isn’t the only cruise line extending cancellations. Carnival has also canceled U.S. cruises until the end of March, and Royal Caribbean has extended its suspension this week until April.

Disney said improved security measures will be in place when its ships return to service.