Coronavirus: P&O Cruises boss says ‘bear with us’

Coronavirus: P&O Cruises boss says ‘bear with us’

P&O Iona currently doing sea trails.

P&O Cruises’ president, Paul Ludlow, has asked passengers to show “some forbearance and patience” as the cruise line deals with mass cancellations amid the coronavirus crisis.

On March 16, the cruise line was one of four Carnival brands which announced a temporary halt to all cruises, lasting until mid-April.

P&O Cruises said it will provide a 125% future cruise credit for passengers affected by the suspension.

In a message for passengers, Ludlow said: “I am…aware that some of you have stated you are frustrated at some of the changes we have had to make to our policies.

“While I understand your concerns, I would ask you to bear with us as we work through the multitude of new guidelines from government and industry bodies, including Abta.

“These are being updated regularly as this situation evolves and we are striving to strike the right balance between doing our very best for our guests and working in line with the rest of the travel industry in what will be, without doubt, the most challenging period the travel industry has ever seen.

“P&O Cruises needs you, more than ever, to stay with us and to show some forbearance and patience.

“Also, I promise you that I fully understand the disappointment caused for many of you, given your holidays have been curtailed, have been cancelled or are looking unlikely in the current situation.

“We are working through the very complex plan for our resumption of sailings and we will be sharing that once completed.”

The full statement is on the P&O Cruises Twitter feed @pandocruises

Abta issued guidance to members on delaying refunds on Friday and hopes for government confirmation of the changes today (March 23).

These would see ‘refund credit notes’ issued to consumers protected by the ATOL scheme, initially up to July 31.