Cunard Extends Pause In Operations Due To Covid-19

Cunard has announced a further extension to its pause in operations, with sailings now only due to resume from May 2021, at the earliest.

The news comes as a direct result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the uncertainty and restrictions it's causing in the global travel industry.

Voyages departing on board the iconic liner Queen Mary 2 up to 28 May 2021 have now been cancelled, with sailings cancelled on Queen Elizabeth up to and including the 4 June 2021.

Sailings on Queen Victoria will remain unaffected, as the ship was only due to resume operations on 17 May 2021.

Cunard guests who have had their voyage cancelled will automatically receive a 125 per cent Future Cruise Credit, which they can use towards a new Cunard booking and even a stateroom upgrade.

Guests who prefer a cash refund will be reimbursed 100 per cent of the fare, and guests who prefer a refund should complete the form on Cunard.com.

“Our extension to the pause in operations is the result of the ongoing restrictions on cruising in the UK and around the world and recognises the significant lead times to return to service, once those restrictions are lifted," said Cunard president, Simon Palethorpe.

“We are extremely sorry for the disappointment we know this will cause. We know how much careful consideration goes into planning a holiday and apologise that our guests now have to wait a little longer to travel once again with Cunard.

“Guests are able to use their enhanced 125% Future Cruise Credit to book for later in 2021 or for one of our newly announced 2022 voyages. The tremendous response already to our 2022 voyages, put on sale just a few weeks ago, clearly demonstrates our guests are eagerly anticipating travelling again with us. We’re equally looking forward to the time when we can welcome back our guests.”

Those looking to get their Cunard fix before May 2021 are in luck, as a brand new Hollywood film featuring the line is being released this week.

Shot on the iconic Queen Mary 2 last year, Let Them All Talk is being released this Thursday, 10 December, directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring A-listers like Meryl Streep, Candice Bergen and Gemma Chan.