TUI announced it is extending the suspension of sailings in 2020. Voyages operated by the brand's cruise line, Marella, will be paused up to and including December 16, 2020.
The launch of TUI Travel's new cruise brand (UK-focused) TUI River Cruises has been also postponed, with its riverboats (TUI Isla, TUI Skyla, TUI Maya) debuting in March-April 2021 instead.
The company said it will contact affected cruisers and offer a range of options such as amending their sailing for free with a booking incentive, requesting a full cash refund, or receiving an ATOL-protected refund credit note with a booking incentive.
The UK's Foreign Office advises against cruise travel that includes "sea-going cruise ships".
Meanwhile, the UK's second lockdown (since November 5) also bans international travel and is due to last through December 2.
The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the industry. Cruise shipping companies globally have been forced to suspend operations or reduce voyages, with many canceling voyages until 2021.