Hurtigruten still in talks with the government over UK cruises

Hurtigruten still in talks with the government over UK cruises

Two of Hurtigruten new Hybrid ships. 

Hurtigruten remains in talks with the UK government over plans to run a series of short sailings around the British Isles.

The Foreign Office has updated its advice against cruise ship travel to confirm that it only related to international travel on “sea-going” ships.

The updated advice would appear to exclude cruises in UK waters from the blanket ban, although no further clarity has been given. The FCO’s guidance says those seeking information on such cruises should contact the Department for Transport.

The DfT has yet to respond to a request for clarification from Travel Weekly.

Hurtigruten’s series of UK cruises are set to depart in September and remain on sale as the cruise line continues to liaise with relevant authorities.

Anthony Daniels, general manager for UK and EMEA, said: “We are working with the authorities; the short breaks remain on sale, with the reassurance to customers of a full refund if sailings are cancelled.”

He stressed that he was encouraged by today’s news and was hopeful of “further positive discussions with the Department for Transport.

“We are encouraged by the news coming from the UK government regarding travel advice for cruise ships. We look forward to furthering, positive discussions with Department for Transport and PHE over the safe return of expedition cruising, with a specific focus on Hurtigruten’s short breaks series in UK waters departing in September.”

The short break expedition cruises come with a flexible booking policy to ensure guests receive a full refund if sailings are cancelled. The line said it would operate at a reduced capacity of 350 guests (roughly 65%).

Daniels added: “Health and safety of guests and crew is Hurtigruten’s number one priority, and we comply with all Covid-19 regulations and policies in the waters, coasts and ports we visit.”