A Norwegian Cruise ship docked at the Port in Tortola, Virgin Islands. Photo: Cruise Mapper

Since the outbreak of the virus, Cruiseships have dominated the news as floating 'petri-dishes' for the COVID-19 virus, some refused entry or quarantined at ports after outbreaks onboard. Photo: Internet Source

Norwegian Cruise Line currently sails to Tortola, VI and describes the destination as, 'A great spot for great birdwatching and breathtaking views of Tortola and neighbouring islands.' Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

"The Coronavirus can only survive in cold temperatures, so the Caribbean is a fantastic choice for your next cruise," is just one example of the misleading talking points shared with the sales staff according to leaked emails, which were obtained by the Miami New Times.

Floating 'Petri-dishes' for COVID-19 

Since the global outbreak of the virus, Cruiseships have dominated the news as floating 'petri-dishes' for the COVID-19 virus, with some refused entry or quarantined at ports after outbreaks onboard. 

In the leaked emails, other phrases included “one-liners” to tell people about the coronavirus while selling tickets, another suggested line was to tell people that cruise cancellations in Asia boosted demand for trips elsewhere.

Examples of more fast sales pitches included, "Scientists and medical professionals have confirmed that the warm weather of the spring will be the end of the Coronavirus; The only thing you need to worry about for your cruise is do you have enough sunscreen?; [Coronavirus] cannot live in the amazingly warm and tropical temperatures that your cruise will be sailing to."

According to the Miami New Times, the employee who leaked the emails under the condition of anonymity said sales have been dismal for the industry sparking discussions.

"These discussions take place every day. And even during our department meetings, managers tell us that it isn't a big deal, that more people die from other things," says the employee. 

Cruiseline sails to Tortola 

The employee also claimed that most salespeople would likely follow the advice of management in order to keep their jobs, “If you don't hit quota, you will absolutely be fired. No exceptions for [the] current virus situation. You may be put on a personal improvement plan for 30 days, but [that] basically means you're done."

The Norwegian Cruise Line currently sails to Tortola, VI and describes the destination as, "A great spot for great birdwatching and breathtaking views of Tortola and neighbouring islands."

Other leaked communications according to the Miami New Times show the Norweigan Cruise managers trying to find the employee who "ratted and lied" about the company.