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P&O Cruises Australia extends pause, cancels Cairns season

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Pacific Explorer’s two-month season in Cairns has been cancelled
P&O Cruises Australia’s rolling pause has been extended again, from June 18 until July 30, and the company cancelled voyages to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands for the remainder of the year.

A season in Cairns, where Pacific Explorer was to have been based for two months from October, will not go ahead following the ‘uncertainty around borders’ and the cancellation of PNG and Solomon Island itineraries.

‘We are continuing our discussions with governments and health authorities to develop a framework for the staged resumption of cruising,’ Sture Myrmell, president of P&O Cruises Australia, said.

Better days ahead

‘As those discussions continue, today’s changes are necessary as we take a practical approach to the current environment and continue to look forward to better days ahead,’ Myrmell said. 

He said the company has continued with preparations for Pacific Encounter (the former Star Princess) and Pacific Adventure (the former Golden Princess) to join the fleet and ‘offer a very special cruising experience when we are again able to sail.’

He thanked passengers for their patience and understanding and said passengers and travel agents will be contacted directly with alternative arrangements.