A CRUISE that was set to travel from Poole to Iceland and the Northern lights has been cancelled due to the coronavirus.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) has made the decision regarding the Astoria vessel based on the escalating pandemic outbreak of the COVID-19, updated government advisories and the impending lockdown of many ports around the world.

Passengers had already boarded the ship yesterday ahead of its departure on the 13-night trip, however it never set sail.

Following discussions today, CMV informed passengers on board and the crew of Astoria before publicly announcing the decision.

A statement from the company says: "CMV would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused to passengers who have boarded the ship.

"CMV would like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding while they worked to resolve the changes to this cruise."

The statement adds: "For those Astoria passengers who wish they can disembark immediately and if they need assistance with their luggage crew with be at the gangway. Passengers needing to rearrange transportation can speak to the guest services team at the shore excursions desk who will be able to assist.

"CMV is working hard to resolve passengers concerns and travel plans and would like to reassure passengers that we remain as flexible and as understanding as possible.

"The health and safety of passengers and crew, as well as those in local communities, is CMV’s top priority. All CMV employees and crew are fully aware of the heightened protocols and are undertaking enhanced health and safety procedures to ensure that the highest possible hygiene standards are maintained throughout every aspect of our cruises."

All passengers will be offered a full refund plus a 50 per cent discount for a future cruise for up 14 nights, based on the best deal of the day including the current UK 2021 Buy One Get One Free Offers & 2020 late saver deals. A future cruise discount of 25 per cent will apply, to cruises over 15 nights. Future cruise bookings must be made by July 31, 2020.

In addition, CMV also said it will offer a special 20 per cent discount against CMV’s onboard additions beverage package, plus a 15 per cent shore excursion discount, plus a one cabin category upgrade (subject to availability) will also be offered. More details are available on the CMV website.