The line is also cancelling selected cruises on later dates in 2021 “related to itineraries and dry dock work”. 

“Booked guests and travel agents are being notified directly of the cancellations and their options for a generous future cruise credit and onboard credit package, or a full refund,” Carnival announced.

Cancellations include Carnival Freedom from Galveston through to 10 April, Carnival Miracle from San Diego and San Francisco until 16 September and Carnival Liberty from Port Canaveral from 17 September to 18 October.

The news also sees a suspension of Carnival Sunshine sailing from Charleston from 11 October until 13 November and Carnival Spirit’s 15-day cruise from Singapore to Brisbane on 12 June.

Carnival president Christine Duffy said: “We are sorry to disappoint our guests, as we can see from our booking activity that there is clearly a pent-up demand for cruising on Carnival.

“We appreciate their patience and support as we continue to work on our plans to resume operations in 2021 with a gradual, phased in approach.”