Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL), the world’s second largest cruise shipping group, said it has decided to extend its Cruise with Confidence cancellation policy through 1 September, 2020. 

“The updated policy enhances planning flexibility by allowing cancellations up to 48 hours prior to sailing for any reason.  Guests will receive a full credit for their fare, usable on any future sailing of choice in 2020 or 2021,” RCCL said in a statement.

Introduced on 6 March, the policy was first intended to remain in place until 31 July.

"Guests are reacting positively to our Cruise with Confidence policy," says company chairman and CEO Richard Fain, "because it enables them to make informed decisions and to better manage complicated travel plans during this unprecedented time of uncertainty."

The extension applies to both new and existing cruise bookings. In addition to easing concerns of booked guests, Fain says the policy enhances consumer confidence to schedule new bookings, knowing last-minute travel adjustments will incur no penalty.

"We want our guests to feel they can safely keep their existing cruise bookings or schedule new sailings," says Fain, "because this policy gives them more freedom and flexibility."

The policy applies to all cruises with sailing dates on or before 1 September 2020, and applies to the company's global brands Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara.