Carnival extends halt of select cruises

Cruise operator Carnival said its Holland America unit had extended the pause of select cruises as travel and port restrictions continued due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Holland America's operations and departure from the port of Vancouver, British Columbia, in 2020, as well as select Hawaiian itineraries in early 2021 had all been suspended, Carnival said on Friday.

The FTSE 250-listed firm said guests scheduled on impacted services would automatically receive future cruise credits but were also able to apply for a 100% refund online, if preferred.

Carnival also highlighted the "vital role" travel advisors play in the success of the cruise industry, and said Holland America Line would cover travel advisor commissions on bookings for cancelled cruises that had been paid in full and for the total amount.

As of 0900 BST, Carnival shares were up 4.87% at 1,252.22p.