VANCOUVER — Rocky Mountaineer is delaying the start of its 2020 season until the end of April amid concerns over COVID-19.

Originally scheduled to begin on April 13, the season’s start has now been delayed through April, with impacted guests receiving a credit valued at 110% of their original booking. Credits are to be used for travel by the end of the 2022 season.

Resumption dates of Rocky Mountaineer’s operations will be assessed in accordance with travel mandates from global and Canadian governments.

“Along with the rest of the tourism industry, we have been watching the immeasurable global impact of COVID-19,” said Steve Sammut, president and chief executive officer. “These are challenging times for the world and, while we were hopeful for the start of this season we have no choice but to suspend all routes for the time being.

“The situation is a difficult one, but the delay is in consideration of the wellbeing of our guests, team members and wider community.”

Sammut added: “We will be offering guests flexibility to rebook their trips and have made these changes to provide travellers with assurance they can postpone their trip to be enjoyed at a time that works best for them.”

As a 30-year-old, Canadian-based business, Sammut is confident that Rocky Mountaineer will weather the storm. “Travel and tourism will be a critical part of helping the Canadian economy recover, and we thank our partners, guests and team members for their support during these challenging times.”