If you were planning to take a cruise this summer, you may have to think again. Carnival Cruise Line has just announced that all of their North America trips planned through September 30, 2020, have been canceled due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision does not come lightly but as a response weighing the safety risks during the ongoing situation. Safety is always at the forefront of the company’s priorities. “During this unprecedented pause in our business, we have continued to assess the operating environment and confer with public health, government and industry officials,” Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy stated in an open letter.

When the pandemic began, Carnival had delayed their operations just 30 days as of March 13, 2020. This is now the third time they’ve extended the pause in their services. The earliest sails will take place will be October 1, 2020, but, if history continues to repeat itself, that date may also get delayed.

Though many businesses, including those in the travel industry, have begun to open back up due to declining cases in certain areas, Carnival is simply not one of them. The company wants to make sure all passengers will be able to remain safe on their trips. And when that time comes, they will ensure their safety is top-notch by implementing a slew of new rules and regulations.

“Once we do resume service, we will take all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we bring our ships to in order to maintain public confidence in our business,” Duffy assured customers in the letter, apologizing for the inconvenience. “Nevertheless, we apologize for disrupting your vacation plans and appreciate your patience as we work through these decisions.”

If you’ve booked a Carnival cruise set to depart before September 30, the company is, of course, offering a few options for what you can do. You can reschedule your trip to a later date, where you’ll also receive a future cruise credit and either a $300 or $600 onboard credit to be used during your time on the ship. Or, you can also take a full refund if you can’t find a time to reschedule.

Future guests cant take care of their reschedule or cancellation options remotely online. They have until May 31, 2021, about an entire year, to rebook, if that’s their preference.

“We appreciate the patience and support of our loyal guests and recognize how much they want to get back to cruising. When the time is right, our outstanding onboard team will be waiting to welcome them back and give them the great vacation that they deserve,” Duffy said.

It hasn’t exactly been the easiest time for the cruise line. To hear more about how Carnival Cruise Lines has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, check out the video below.

Do you plan to travel at all this summer? If so, would you feel safe going on a cruise?