2021 Cruises : 5 Big Watch Outs And Need-to-Knows

Editorial Summary

Gary Bembridge examines the risks and considerations for travelers looking to book cruises for 2021. He advises against assuming that the industry will return to pre-pandemic normalcy, noting that mainstream cruising schedules remain uncertain due to varying international health regulations and travel advisories. Bembridge highlights several key concerns, including the possibility that specific itineraries may not run, certain ships may not be brought back into service, and onboard protocols like masking or social distancing could alter the experience. He also notes that current pricing may not reflect true demand, suggesting that travelers wait for more stability to find better deals. For those who decide to proceed with a booking, Bembridge recommends several precautions. These include ensuring the booking allows for cancellations or itinerary changes, choosing low or refundable deposits, securing comprehensive insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage, and using price tracking tools to monitor for potential fare reductions. Ultimately, he suggests that while some niche opportunities like river cruises in Europe exist, mainstream travelers should wait for more certainty regarding ship availability and travel restrictions.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.