Amidst the fierce outbreak of COVID-19, Viking Cruises has taken the tough choice to halt its river and ocean cruising activities until May 1, 2020. Prioritizing the health and safety of its passengers and staff above everything else, Viking acknowledges the hazards linked to possible quarantines or health-related confinements.
Although this suspension disrupts the company’s commitment to providing unforgettable travel experiences, affected guests have the option to receive a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund. Viking remains dedicated to its guests, employees, and partners during these challenging times, and is actively working towards expanding its travel offerings in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Viking Cruises has temporarily suspended all river and ocean cruise operations until May 1, 2020 due to the complications caused by COVID-19.
- The decision to suspend operations was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of guests and employees, as travel involves significant risks of quarantines or medical detentions.
- Affected guests have the option to choose between a Future Cruise Voucher valued at 125% of all monies paid or a refund equal to the amount paid.
- Viking plans to continue expanding its destination-focused travel experiences, including launching expedition journeys to the Arctic, Antarctica, and North America’s Great Lakes in early 2022.
Viking Cruises Suspension
I just read that Viking Cruises has temporarily suspended its river and ocean cruise operations until May 1, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of guests and employees.
The Chairman of Viking, Torstein Hagen, issued a letter to currently booked guests, explaining the situation and offering options for affected guests. This suspension is necessary because operating as a travel company in these times involves significant risks, such as quarantines and medical detentions.
Viking aims to provide high-quality experiences, which is currently not possible due to the present circumstances. Guests who have been affected by the suspension can choose between a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund equal to the amount paid.
Viking is fully committed to its guests, employees, and partners during these challenging times.
Reasons for Suspension
The decision to temporarily suspend was made in order to prioritize the safety and well-being of guests and employees. The current circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic present significant risks for travel companies like Viking Cruises. It is our responsibility to ensure that our guests and employees are not exposed to potential quarantines or medical detentions.
During this challenging time, we understand the disappointment and frustration that our guests may feel. However, we want to assure everyone that this decision was made with their best interests in mind. We are committed to providing high-quality experiences, but the present circumstances make it impossible to do so.
We are offering Future Cruise Vouchers valued at 125% of all monies paid or a refund to our affected guests. We understand the importance of flexibility during these uncertain times and want to provide options that meet the needs of our guests.
Please know that we are dedicated to our guests, employees, and partners, and we appreciate their continued support. Together, we will navigate through these challenging times and come out stronger on the other side.
Options for Affected Guests
Guests who have been impacted by the temporary suspension have the option to choose between a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund.
The Future Cruise Voucher is a great choice for those who are planning to travel in the future, as it can be used within 24 months for any river, ocean, or expedition cruise. It’s fully transferable, so if you’re unable to use it, you can pass it on to a friend or family member.
If you decide to go for the refund option, you will receive the full amount that you originally paid. Please note that if you choose the Future Cruise Voucher and are unable to use it before it expires, a refund equal to the original amount paid will be automatically sent to you.
To discuss your preferred option, you can contact Viking or your Travel Agent. We understand that this situation is challenging, but we are committed to providing the best support and options for our guests during these uncertain times.
Viking’s Future Plans
Looking ahead, we plan to expand our travel experiences by launching new river voyages in America’s heartland in April 2020.
These new voyages will offer our guests the opportunity to explore the beauty and charm of America’s heartland, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture. Our aim is to provide our guests with unforgettable experiences that showcase the unique destinations we visit.
We are excited to introduce these new river voyages and believe they will be a wonderful addition to our portfolio of destination-focused travel experiences.
As always, the safety and well-being of our guests, employees, and partners remain our top priority. We will continue to navigate these challenging times with the utmost care and look forward to welcoming our guests on board our new river voyages in America’s heartland.
COVID-19 Impact on Travel
Fortunately, my upcoming travel plans have not been affected by the current situation with the coronavirus.
However, I am aware of the significant impact it has had on the travel industry as a whole. COVID-19 has caused closures of ports and attractions, making travel complicated and risky.
Many travel companies, including Viking Cruises, have temporarily suspended their operations to prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests and employees. This decision is understandable, as operating as a travel company involves the risk of quarantines or medical detentions.
Viking Cruises is offering Future Cruise Vouchers valued at 125% of all monies paid or a refund to affected guests. They are also planning to continue expanding their destination-focused travel experiences, including launching expedition journeys to the Arctic, Antarctica, and North America’s Great Lakes in early 2022.
Safety and Well-being Prioritized
As a traveler, I understand the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all individuals during these challenging times. It is commendable that Viking Cruises has made the decision to temporarily suspend their operations until May 1, 2020, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This suspension is necessary to ensure the health and safety of both guests and employees. With the current complications in travel, such as closed ports and attractions, it is simply not feasible for Viking to provide the high-quality experiences they are known for. By taking this proactive step, Viking will be better positioned to deliver the exceptional experiences their guests expect in the future.
They are offering Future Cruise Vouchers valued at 125% of all monies paid or a refund to affected guests, providing them with flexibility and options. I appreciate Viking’s commitment to prioritize safety and well-being, and I hope for their continued support during these uncertain times.
Future Cruise Voucher Offer
I’m grateful for the flexibility and options provided by the Future Cruise Voucher offer from Viking Cruises.
This offer allows guests who have been affected by the temporary suspension of operations to choose between a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund equal to the amount paid.
The Future Cruise Voucher can be used within 24 months for any river, ocean, or expedition cruise. It is also fully transferable, giving guests the option to share it with family or friends.
If guests are unable to use the voucher, a refund equal to the original amount paid will be automatically sent after the voucher expires.
This shows Viking’s commitment to providing their guests with choices and ensuring that they are taken care of during these challenging times.
Expansion into New Destinations
After offering Future Cruise Vouchers and refunds to affected guests, Viking Cruises is now focusing on its expansion into new destinations.
I am excited to share that in early 2022, Viking will launch expedition journeys to the Arctic, Antarctica, and North America’s Great Lakes. Imagine standing on the deck of a Viking ship, surrounded by breathtaking icy landscapes or witnessing the majestic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Additionally, in April 2020, Viking will announce new river voyages in America’s heartland. Picture yourself cruising along the Mississippi River, exploring charming towns and experiencing the rich history and culture of this region.
As a company committed to providing high-quality travel experiences, Viking hopes to continue delighting its guests with these new and exciting destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will Viking Cruises be suspending operations?
Viking Cruises will be suspending operations until May 1, 2020, prioritizing the safety and well-being of guests and employees. This temporary suspension allows us to ensure high-quality experiences in the future.
What options are available to guests who had their cruises suspended?
Affected guests who had their cruises suspended by Viking Cruises have the option to choose between a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund equal to the amount paid. The voucher can be used within 24 months for any river, ocean, or expedition cruise.
Can the Future Cruise Vouchers be transferred to someone else?
Yes, the Future Cruise Vouchers offered by Viking Cruises are fully transferable. Guests have the option to transfer the voucher to someone else if they are unable to use it themselves.
What new destinations will Viking Cruises be expanding into?
Viking Cruises plans to expand its destination-focused travel experiences by launching expedition journeys to the Arctic, Antarctica, and North America’s Great Lakes in early 2022. Additionally, new river voyages in America’s heartland will be announced in April 2020.
How has COVID-19 impacted the travel industry as a whole?
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the travel industry as a whole. Travel restrictions, closed borders, and fears of the virus have led to a sharp decline in travel demand, forcing many companies to suspend operations and prioritize the safety of their customers and employees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Viking Cruises has made the difficult decision to temporarily suspend its operations in order to prioritize the safety and well-being of its guests and employees.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented numerous risks and challenges that prevent the company from providing the high-quality experiences it is known for.
However, Viking remains committed to its guests and has offered them the choice between a Future Cruise Voucher or a refund.
Despite these challenging times, Viking is already planning exciting expeditions to new destinations, including the Arctic, Antarctica, and North America’s Great Lakes.
This demonstrates their determination to continue expanding and providing exceptional travel experiences in the future.
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