Four Royal Caribbean brands allow cancellation up to 48 hours before cruiseFour Royal Caribbean brands allow cancellation up to 48 hours before cruise

This applies to Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Silversea.

Passengers will receive a full credit for their fare, usable on any future sailing in 2020 or 2021.

Applies on sailings through July

The policy applies to both new and existing cruise bookings with a sailing date on or before July 31.

'Our previous policy set earlier deadlines for guests to cancel their cruises, and that added unnecessary stress,' said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO. 'Trying to guess a month or more in advance where areas of concern about coronavirus might be is challenging for medical experts, much less a family preparing for vacation.

Rain check allowed amid fast-changing circumstances

'When circumstances are as fast-changing as they have been recently, it's good to know you have the option to take a rain check,' Fain continued. 'We think putting more control in our guests' hands helps them make informed decisions about whether to keep their existing vacation plans or trade out for a more convenient time or itinerary.'

Several other lines followed suit. See 'NCL, Oceania Cruises, Regent adopt 48-hour cancellation policy.'