Trouble in the Gulf creates trouble for cruisers

British cruise line P&O have today announced they are pulling one of their vessels from her Dubai and United Arab Emirates season planned for October 2019 through to March 2020 due to ongoing issues in the Persian Gulf, leaving thousands of holiday makers having to rebook their planned trips.

It is no secret that tensions between the Iranian and US government have been fraught with problems of late with President Trump trying to force them into submission on a nuclear power deal by imposing sanctions on the country and cutting off their oil supply. Iran has been retaliating by seizing oil tankers in the gulf which has promoted the US and more recently the British government to deploy navy war ships to the area to escort and protect vessels crossing the stretch of troubled water. Something the Iranian’s say is provocative and carries a hostile message.

It is because of this ongoing fall out that P&O have taken the decision to protect Oceana, her crew and her passengers by cancelling her upcoming season in the area. They are currently working on 14 new itineraries for her to sail which are said to be taking in the Canary Islands and the Caribbean. They are of course offering full refunds and the option to rebook on to a sailing of choosing with an extra 10% discount.

MSC, an Italian owned cruise line are continuing their commitment to the Dubai area for the winter season and they are offering cancelled P&O clients £50 per person free on board credit should they wish to book on to one of their sailings. Costa Cruises are also continuing their Dubai season and are offering 10% discount to book with them. Not being American or British owned companies means they are not tied up in the disagreements – especially since the rest of Europe do not wish to get involved.

It’s always a real disappointment and frustration when cruises are cancelled, but we are on hand to help you get booked on to a replacement. Whatever that may be. Lets hope these governments make friends soon enough so that cruise lines can go about their business as planned and we can holiday as planned!