Regent Seven Seas Cruises will modify seven itineraries cruising the Mediterranean, bypassing visits to Italian ports in April and May this year.

This is in response to Italy’s decision yesterday to expand its quarantine measures nationwide to stem the spread of COVID-19.

The impacted voyages include the newly launched Seven Seas Splendor’s Mediterranean sailings on 30 April, 12 May and 21 May, Seven Seas Mariner’s sailings on 8 April and 29 April and Seven Seas Voyager sailings on 16 April and 11 May this year.

Guests who choose to continue their cruise in the Med without visiting Italy will receive a 25 per cent Future Cruise Credit.

Regent’s move comes as the luxury line updated its Regent Reassurance cancellation policy giving guests the option to cancel their voyages up to 48 hours prior to sailing for any voyages departing from 10 March to 30 September 2020. Guests will receive 100 per cent future cruise credit which they can exercise within a year for any sailings up to 31 December 2022.

“With so much information coming from around the world very quickly regarding the global health environment, we understand our guests may feel uneasy about travelling,” said Steve Odell, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of RSSC.

“Regent Reassurance is designed to provide our guests with maximum flexibility and give them the confidence to take a Regent voyage on the most luxurious fleet in the cruise industry.

“Our top priority continues to be the safety, security and well-being of our guests, partners and team members. We have proactively implemented a comprehensive set of preventive measures and continue to consult with the World Health Organisation and US Centers for Disease Control. For the most updated information and an update on our COVID-19 protocols, please refer to our Travel Health Advisory,” added Mr Odell.

For instance, the changed 12-night itinerary for Seven Seas Splendor on 30 April this year, will depart from Barcelona, visiting Palamos, Toulon, Monte Carlo, Ajaccio in Corsica, Argostoli in Greece, Chania in Crete, Ephesus in Turkey, Istanbul, Mykonos and Athens.

Prices for the 12-night cruise start at a special fare of $13,520 pp in a veranda suite which include unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages including premium wine, champagne and spirits, free specialty restaurants and unlimited WiFi.

For more information visit www.RSSC.com or call 1300 455 200.

Another luxury line, Crystal Cruises will also be changing its itineraries for its April and May sailings in the Med that visit Italian ports. Guests will be informed once Crystal finalises the itinerary modifications.

Visit https://www.crystalcruises.com.au/coronavirus-update.