Is Cruise Industry Set to Make Comeback as First European River Cruise Sails Again
Coming as a major respite to millions of cruisers worldwide, the cruise industry seems to be all set to make a gradual return to normal operations after a long break. Marking the first step towards the recovery of the sector, the first riverboat NickoVision set sail on June 1 with 110 excited passengers. The riverboat was prepared for its journey from Passau to Dusseldorf after considering all hygiene and safety measures.
As passengers returned to experience the cruise, travelling is sure to be a lot different than otherwise. Passengers have to fill a health form and get their temperatures checked to prove themselves fit for the journey. Besides, NickoVision headed for its 13-day voyage along the Danube and Rhine is carrying only half the normal number of people.
Adhering to the eased lockdown restrictions of several countries, many European and American river and small ship companies have resumed sails on June 1. The Canadian cruise industry might have to wait longer as some operators aren’t planning to resume operations at least till 2021 beginning. On the other hand, several cruise providers in Germany are introducing new schemes to attract cruise lovers from around the world.
All set with its cruises on the Rhine River, an operator of German and international sailings — Scylla has already started operations on June 1. Both A-Rosa and Scylla have mandated covering nose and mouth in public spaces. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines are also aiming to resume boats on the Columbia and Snake rivers in Pacific Northwest by June 20. As per the American Queen Steamboat Company, the return date for the Columbia and Snake rivers and the Mississippi River will be in July.
In an announcement made earlier, Canada’s Transport Minister Marc Garneau said that vessels with 500+ passengers were barred from the country till July. Recently, he reduced the capacity to 100 passengers and crew. Smaller cruise ships will be permitted post July 1.
Famous cruise service provider of Germany, VIVA Cruises has announced the launch of new four-night cruises to attract cruisers in this summer season. Two of VIVA’s ships — MS TREASURES and MS INSPIRE will be set for short itineraries and take all safety measures on-board.
Some members of the cruise industry, like Viking Cruises, which had announced voluntary suspension of operations for river and ocean sailings in March 2020 have extended suspension plans. Viking Cruises will now remain suspended till at least August 31. Depending on the situation in future, cruise operators will gradually resume operations as tourists feel more confident about travelling.
