| Viking cancels Asia 2021

VIKING this morning advised travel partners that its Asia 2021 ocean cruise departures will not operate, with an extension of the cruise line’s temporary fleet-wide suspension on these itineraries.

The company also confirmed that due to the Australian Government’s recent extension of the Human Biosecurity Emergency Period until 17 Sep (CW 11 Jun) all bookings held by local guests are being cancelled up until the time they are able to travel again.

The cancellations are understood to mean Viking Orion will not make her annual sojourn Down Under, with the fully sold-out ship having a series of local trans-Tasman voyages planned from Dec this year.

Orion had been scheduled to come here via Asia, including a popular itinerary from Vancouver to Japan next month followed by cruises visiting Hong Kong, Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore and Bali.

“Travel restrictions and complications due to COVID-19 continue to make cruise ship travel complicated, especially itineraries that visit multiple countries,” said Viking Managing Director for Australia & New Zealand Michelle Black.

“We know that this is a difficult time for all of us in the travel industry,” she said.

“We hope that as your clients prepare to return to travel they know that Viking will be there, ready to resume operations and, as always, committed to their safety and wellbeing.”

Impacted clients have the option of a future cruise voucher valued at 110% of all monies paid to Viking, redeemable on any ocean, river or expedition product, and fully transferrable for sailings by Dec 2023.

Alternatively customers can request a refund equal to the amount paid, with a lodgement deadline of 16 Jul.

Commission is protected on all paid in full cancelled cruises where guests opt for the future cruise voucher.

For deposited bookings, where guests opt for the future cruise voucher, it will be commissionable, but if clients opt for a refund, commission will not be paid.

Viking also noted that if clients chose to cancel their bookings prior to the announced suspension of voyages, then the policy in place at the time of their cancellation will prevail.

“We will not be making any exceptions to the policies enforced on previously cancelled bookings, and appreciate your understanding in this regard,” Viking said.

The line thanked agents for their support, with Black saying “we appreciate your efforts and the kindness and support you are providing your clients during this uncertain time”.