ASTA is not exactly thrilled by the US Administration’s advice to US citizens, particularly travellers with underlying health conditions, not to travel by cruise ship. Zane Kerby, president and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), In a statement ASTA called the advisory’s warning to avoid cruising a “broad ‘high risk’ brush stroke” that is “irresponsible” and adds to the public fear.

The statement says:

“Given the importance of the cruise industry to travel advisors, ASTA is gravely concerned about the impact of this advisory on our members’ businesses. As we shared with the White House before the advisories were issued, the vast majority of cruise trips go off without a hitch, and government actions should reflect that fact and be targeted and temporary. We hope this advisory lasts days, not weeks.

“There are 365 cruise ships sailing today with nearly 700,000 passengers aboard. Only two ships have a coronavirus problem. A targeted focus on cruising is a distraction from the real issue of community spread. Telling the traveling public to avoid cruising and painting the entire industry with a broad ‘high risk’ brush stroke is irresponsible, and ads to the “info-demic” gripping the public. Those who have underlying health conditions should consult their physician to evaluate a variety of activities including travel.”

“On behalf of ASTA and our 12,000 members across the country, 98% of whom are small businesses according to the Small Business Administration and 2/3 of whom are owned and operated by women, we urge the Administration to work with Congress on a legislative package of targeted relief for the travel industry, especially the small businesses at its core. Items such as federal grants, low- or no-interest SBA loans and regulatory relief for small businesses should be considered. Tomorrow, ASTA will testify at the US House of Representatives Small Business Committee to provide specific examples to Congress for how to help travel advisors continue to serve their clients and highlight suggested policy priorities to be considered.”