Members of the Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA) have voluntarily extended the ban on cruise operations from US ports by nearly two full months to mid-September.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in April imposed a no-sail order for passengerships to 24 July following numerous onboard outbreaks.

The 10 April order ceased cruiseship operation in waters in which the US may exert jurisdiction and required forming an operational plan approved by the CDC and the US Coast Guard to address the pandemic.

US territories include American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

“Due to the ongoing situation within the US related to Covid-19, CLIA member cruise lines have decided to voluntarily extend the period of suspended passenger operations", the Washington DC-based organisation said in a statement on Friday.

"Although we had hoped that cruise activity could resume as soon as possible after that date, it is increasingly clear that more time will be needed to resolve barriers to resumption in the US.

Caution

“Although we are confident that future cruises will be healthy and safe, and will fully reflect the latest protective measures, we also feel that it is appropriate to err on the side of caution to help ensure the best interests of our passengers and crew members. We have therefore decided to further extend our suspension of operations from US ports until 15 September."

CLIA said the additional time will allow its members to consult with the CDC on appropriate measures for eventually resuming US cruise operations.

CLIA lists 41 cruise lines on its website, including those owned by the "Big Three" majors comprising Carnival Corp, Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.