6 Signs Cruise Lines Not Expecting To Start Sailing On Advertised Dates

Editorial Summary

Gary Bembridge outlines six indicators suggesting that the cruise industry will not resume operations as quickly as advertised dates might imply. He first notes that cruise line executives, including leaders from Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian, have expressed significant uncertainty regarding when they will be permitted to sail. Second, he highlights physical operational shifts, such as corporations raising massive amounts of private capital to survive extended shutdowns, placing ships into cold layups, and sending crews home, which prevents a rapid return to service. Third, Bembridge points to the lack of agreed-upon health and safety protocols, noting that essential medical and screening procedures remain unfinalized. Fourth, he observes that general travel and airline infrastructure are not yet ready, with many countries maintaining strict social distancing and movement restrictions. Fifth, he mentions the ongoing political hostility and regulatory pressure from authorities like the CDC. Finally, he argues that there is a lack of consumer energy, noting that many passengers are requesting refunds rather than future cruise credits, which suggests a lack of confidence in a near-term recovery.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.