Sea Cloud Cruises cancels Caribbean winter season

Sea Cloud Cruises canceled its winter season in the Caribbean and will resume service in Europe this spring.

The Germany-based tall ship operator said the decision to cancel its Caribbean winter season was based on changing border policies in the Caribbean and continued uncertainty about flight options.

“This necessary step is the only way to give our guests and all our sales partners the peace of mind when planning for future travel,” said managing director Daniel Schafer in a statement, adding that, “Since infection rates are continuing to rise worldwide, almost all the islands in the Caribbean still do not allow ships to enter their territory.”

The decision, which impacts all sailings in the Caribbean, Central America and two transatlantic crossings, was also based on U.S. authorities not having lifted the ban on cruising.

Sea Cloud said that its three tall ships will sail in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands. The line plans to launch its newbuild Sea Cloud Spirit in the Canary Islands on April 14 and its two existing vessels on Western Mediterranean itineraries on April 21.

The 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit will be the line’s first new vessel in nearly 20 years with its expected delivery later this year.

If the pandemic situation has not changed by April, Sea Cloud said it is also preparing alternatives. The line is offering guests the opportunity to cancel up to six weeks prior to departure for a full refund.