AmaWaterways is delaying the start of its European river
cruise season and suspending Mekong sailings in response to the Covid-19
outrbreak.
“With the latest travel warnings and restrictions imposed by
the U.S., Canadian and UK governments, we must continue to be vigilant in
protecting the health of those on board our ships,” AmaWaterways president and co-founder
Rudi Schreiner said in a statement.
The company said it was delaying the start of its 2020
European sailing season until April 26 and suspending its Mekong River cruises that
were to begin March 23.
Schreiner has said guests have had problems getting to Asia
since airlines drastically cut airlift in response the widespread outbreak in
China, the epicenter of the virus.
“This is not an easy decision, as we know how much our
guests were looking forward to their vacations, but we must follow all
precautionary measures put in place by governing authorities,” Schreiner said.
Guests who were booked on a cruise that is being canceled
have the option of receiving a full refund or future cruise credit equal to
115% of the value of all services purchased through AmaWaterways. The credit
can be used on any Europe or Mekong cruise before Dec. 31, 2022.
The company said it would fully protect the commission of
travel advisors whose clients opt for a future cruise credit and pay an
additional 10% commission on the value of a new booking. It will also pay full
commission on the fare difference, if applicable.