Lindblad Expedition Holdings, the US based and listed expedition cruise operator, said the Covid-19 pandemic has hurt its near term bookings, but the situation is much better was far as the second half of the year is concerned.

“The Company has experienced a substantial negative impact from the Covid-19 virus including elevated cancellations and softness in near-term demand,” the company said in a statement.. 

Lindblad said that compared to the same date two years ago, which was prior to the pandemic, bookings for the second half of this year are nearly 20% ahead of the bookings for the second half of 2020 and bookings for 2023 are 54% ahead of the bookings for 2021.

Other listed cruise shipping companies have also said that near term bookings have been hit by the pandemic, but the situation is better regarding the second half of the year.

“As the Company continues to ramp up operations, monthly cash usage will increase as it incurs costs in operating expeditions, prepares additional ships for return to service and spends to market and advertise upcoming expeditions and trips,” it said

A significant increase in guest payments is expected as the company receives final payments for upcoming expeditions and trips, as well as deposits for new reservations for future travel. However, Lindblad said it could not estimate the impact of the pandemic on its results.

It expanded its expedition travel offerings in September 2021 with the delivery of the National Geographic Resolution, which will allow us to further capitalize on the demand for high quality adventure travel and broaden the immersive and authentic itineraries we offer to our guests. It will be the fourth vessel in its fleet to offer capacity for cruises in the polar regions, Lindblad said.