Australia has extended its ban on cruise ships entering its waters until mid-December.
The ban, which also includes overseas travel, was announced by Australia’s Federal Health Minister, Greg Hunt (pictured).
An emergency period of the Biosecurity Act of 2016 will be extended until 17th December, 2020. from the original expiration date of 17th September.
The order includes restrictions on overseas travel, the entry of cruise ships into Australia, the supply and sale of certain essential goods and retail stores at international airports.
“The extension of the emergency period was informed by specialist medical and epidemiological advice provided by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC),” according to Hunt’s statement.
“The AHPPC has advised that the international and domestic COVID-19 situation continues to pose an unacceptable public health risk,” he explained.
This announcement follows Royal Caribbean’s decision to cancel all of its cruises departing from Australia and New Zealand on or before 31st October, 2020.
Princess Cruises has also announced it will extend its pause in cruise operations in Australia through 12th December, 2020, which includes cruises throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Carnival Cruise Line also said that in light of continuing Australian travel restrictions, it is extending its pause in departures from Australia through 2nd December for both the ‘Carnival Spirit’ and ‘Carnival Splendor’.
