Viking Cruises cancels 2022 Kiev and Black Sea sailings

Viking Cruises has cancelled all 2022 departures on its Kiev, Black Sea & Bucharest itinerary in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The line said it was also evaluating 2022 itineraries that call in Russia with the view to modifying them where necessary.

Viking’s move follows announcements from other cruise operators saying they are monitoring the situation, with Saga and Atlas voyages among those to have altered sailings.

Russia has banned UK airlines from its airspace in response to the UK doing the same for Russian carriers as part of a raft of sanctions slapped on Russia in response to its aggression in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, sporting events were moved from Russia. Uefa moved football’s Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris and Formula One cancelled the Russian grand prix, which is reportedly potentially set to move to Turkey.

A Viking spokesperson said: “The safety and security of our guests and crew is always our top priority.

“Given recent events and the developing conflict in Ukraine, we have made the difficult decision to cancel all 2022 departures of our Kiev, Black Sea & Bucharest itinerary.

“Guests and their travel agents on impacted departures have been notified directly by Viking Guest Services.

“Our team is actively monitoring the situation and is in close contact with our field offices in the region.

“We are currently evaluating itineraries that call in Russia in 2022, which will require modifications. When necessary changes are made, Viking Guest Services will notify all impacted guests and their travel agents.”