The first cruise ship scheduled to visit Guernsey this year has been cancelled amid growing concerns over coronavirus.
Following discussions with Guernsey Harbours and other stakeholders, Guernsey’s Public Health Services decided to cancel the visit as a precautionary measure.
‘We really value the contribution that each and every cruise ship makes by bringing visitors to our Island. They are an important part of our tourist economy. We are taking great care in making decisions that may have an impact on local businesses. However, whilst we are seeking advice on the handling of cruise ships from the appropriate agencies, we considered it sensible to cancel this first scheduled visit,’ said Colin Le Ray, States of Guernsey Ports General.
‘We hope the community understand why we’ve made this decision and we want to thank them again for their support.’
As of 12 March, there has been one confirmed case of the virus, also known a COVID-19, in Guernsey, with 84 people having been tested. There are two confirmed cases in Jersey.
The next scheduled cruise ship visit to Guernsey is on 9 April. No other visits are being cancelled at this stage but the situation is being kept under continuous review.
For information, including travel advice, relating to coronavirus COVID-19 in Guernsey, please go to www.gov.gg/coronavirus.
