Depending on the cruise line, fully vaccinated can mean having received the original series at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot. Enjoy your cruise. As of last week, masks arent required for vaccinated guests on Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally, and the rules can changesometimes overnight. Heres a quick breakdown of vaccination and testing policies as of December 2022 at several major cruise lines: These cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests but still have some form of testing requirement in place for those who elected to pass on the vaccine. Check your cruise lines website for more details. If you are allowed onboard, you will need to be tested precruise, which is required for unvaccinated children as well. This article contains links which are ads and if you click on a link and buy a product we will earn revenue. Read Also: When Is The Best Time To Cruise To Alaska, Floridas governor Ron DeSantis says cruise lines, other businesses cannot require proof of vacc, Norweigian Cruise Line to require COVID-19 vaccines, Ziprecruiter CEO says Employers are desperate, Cruises could still legally require proof of vaccination even if Florida bans vaccine passports, How Much Are Drinks On Viking River Cruises, Where Do Viking River Cruises Dock In Amsterdam, How To Get Off Viking Cruises Mailing List, Where Do River Cruise Ships Dock In Basel Switzerland, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers Health site, What Cruise Ships Sail Out Of San Francisco, some itineraries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to travel, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, more than 120 countries have dropped all restrictions. Is A Pierside, Pre-Embarkation COVID-19 Test Required? Keep in mind that each cruise line determines its own health and wellness protocols. The line also warns that masks could be required by some ports of call its ships visit. If Cruises Sail With Vaccinated & Unvaccinated Passengers, Is Everything Back to Normal? Cruise like a pro with expert tips from our editors. You can view Carnivals latest policies here. Olsen passengers are required to wear a mask onboard when not in their staterooms, eating or drinking, or seated in a deck . Is A Pierside, Pre-Embarkation COVID-19 Test Required? Norwegian, which requires guests to bring proof of vaccination, responded to inquiries with a link to its latest press release from early June about its upcoming U.S. voyages. Carnival will now allow all passengers including those who are unvaccinated to sail freely as of September 6, 2022. MSC is a popular choice for passengers looking for relatively affordable fares. The cruise line has a limited but growing presence in the U.S., with cruises from Florida and New York. Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard. This isn't an easy decision, because it's partially about people's health and partially about keeping your business healthy. Otherwise all guests must be fully vaccinated 14 days before departure. Youll find expert advice for experienced and first-time cruisers, as well as port and destination guides. Cruises from Australia or those 16 nights or longer do still require a passenger be vaccinated to sail. As Australia sees a rise in COVID-19 cases, policies are changing once again to try and prevent the spread of . Other cruise lines have also slowly restarted operations in Australia, including Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International. Mask-wearing requirements were common on cruise ships through much of 2021 and into early 2022 as COVID-19 spread across the globe in several major waves. But with the pandemic still ongoing, many cruise lines have implemented safety protocols, including the requirement to wear masks. Some lines, however, may still require one or more protocols to be adhered to, either on a voyage-by-voyage basis or on a destination-basis. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return.. Dont Miss: What Time Does The Victory Casino Cruise Sail. Some of its current passengers have chosen to sail because every adult onboard has been tested and vaccinated. There is no requirement for passengers to mask on board, but 100% of the crew is masked. As protocols change rapidly, here is our rundown of current cruise line COVID-19 practices and policies: There are a number of vaccines available around the world. You can view Virgin Voyages latest policies here. Since 2009, Cruise Radio has provided the latest cruise news and industry analysis through informative articles, videos, and weekly podcasts. Who Needs to Be Vaccinated: All passengers, no exceptions, need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Disney said that changes to the policies are subject to local rules. For general information on testing, please refer to our article on cruise testing requirements. Main photo: a cruise ship docked near Grand Turk Island. Prospective guests of any cruise lines with upcoming sailings in Australia should stay in close contact with their cruise line for health and safety protocol updates and requirements. Testing is still required for some cruises. MORE: 8 Tips For Preparing to Cruise in 2022. Go to Boards. As the major cruise lines prepare to relaunch from U.S. ports this summer, they have not yet been as frank with unvaccinated passengers as they need to be about how their cruise experience will stack up next to that of their vaccinated cruise mates. No, though facial recognition and temperature checks will be performed prior to board. Norwegian Cruise Line*, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International, for example, are all headquartered in the US, which means they must follow the guidelines set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention even when theyre sailing outside of the country. MSC currently offers cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Florida. However, the cruise line did recently relax testing requirements for vaccinated passengers, with a reference that vaccine rules could also drop sometime in the future: MSC Cruises will continue to monitor pandemic conditions and port requirements outside of the U.S., with a goal to relax testing and vaccination protocols to open cruising to all guests, while prioritizing the health and safety of its guests, crew and destinations.. For instance, Princess Cruises maintains a list of Enhanced Guidelines Voyages, and its CruiseHeath look-up tool is available to anyone. Its also important to know that while all adults in the US are now eligible for boosters, the definition of fully vaccinated hasnt changed and you dont need an extra shot to be considered fully vaccinated. The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q& As happening daily! Norwegian Epic (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line) Oceania Cruises Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard. Celebrity CruisesBeginning September 5, all passengers regardless of vaccination status can cruise from the U.K., Europe, and Los Angeles. Disney Cruise Line, which recently welcomed . Sarah has been writing about the cruise industry since 2015. Note: In order to be considered fully vaccinated, passengers must have received their final shot at least 15 days prior to embarkation. Passengers can call the cruise line at 954-488-2955 to ask about sailing without having the shot. Children age 12 to 15 must have received two initial doses of the vaccination. Health and safety are always our first priority in fact, we were the health and safety leaders from the very start of the pandemic, said Harry Sommer, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief executive officer. Unvaccinated passengers will need to test before boarding. Because this policy only impacts sailings in Australia, only two Carnival ships are currently affected: Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa. There is no mention of needing a reason to be eligible for an exemption. For Australians, anyone currently looking to sail internationally will need to be fully vaccinated. Testing is not required of vaccinated guests. As always, your safety is our first priority, so we will continue with our other protocols to keep you well while enjoying your relaxing vacation, the cruise line shared in the email. Shes been on 10 cruises and counting, and her favorite onboard activities include trying out the water slides, spending time in the spas thermal suite, eating lots of food, and attending the love & marriage show. In addition to staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines, the CDC recommends that people who plan to cruise do the following: Dont Miss: Which Cruise Line Gives The Best Military Discount. Most major cruise lines do not require guests to be vaccinated unless they're traveling from or to a destination that requires it. What other safety measures are in place: All ships have been equipped with High Efficiency Particular Air filters and buffets have been eliminated. As long as Covid-19 remains a pandemic, it seems unlikely cruise lines will change protocols. Note: Some destinations still require it and cruises that visit these countries will still have the COVID-19 vaccination requirement due to local laws. Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard. Carnival Splendor setting sail on October 1, Carnival Luminosas first sailing on November 6, approximately 100 cases were reported onboard, Worlds Largest Cruise Ship Oversold for Spring Break, Carnival Cruise Ship Will Offer Transatlantic Voyage After Dry Dock, Photos Reveal Progress at Carnival Cruise Lines New Port. On Royal Caribbean, theyre also required for all kids two and older (regardless of vaccination status) in the Adventure Ocean kids program. On sailings that visit Greece, they are required on the ship when indoors. Costa Cruises, Azamara, and Silversea Cruises have also dropped their vaccination policies with some exceptions. Check out our recap of youth immunization policies for details on cruise vaccination requirements for kids. Again, your cruise company will have the details you need based on your specific itinerary. Judge sides with Norwegian in bid to require COVID-19 vaccination, What Is Included In Concierge Class On Celebrity Cruises, What Cruise Lines Sail From Jacksonville Florida, You can view Carnivals latest policies here, You can view Virgin Voyages latest policies here, ropped the pre-cruise testing requirement. Every other cruise line has a tough decision to make. Guests may also provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test by an accredited third-party with results from within two days of embarkation, if they choose. View Best Prices on Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line For cruises that depart on or after September 6, 2022, Carnival Cruise Line will allow all guests to once again sail on their Fun Ships. No precruise testing is required for vaccinated guests on sailings of five nights or less. That creates a peace of mind you dont get on other types of vacations. Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard except in the medical center. When the first cruises allowing Americans restarted in spring 2021, all major lines were sailing with at least 90% of passengers vaccinated against COVID-19. As of September 5, 2022, Royal Caribbean will no longer require passengers to be vaccinated to sail if departing from ports in California, Louisiana, and Texas. Dont Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip! Norwegian Cruise Line takes Florida to court over vaccine mandate ban, Celebrity Cruise Lines will not require proof of vaccination. As well, even if not required, Royal Caribbean asks that you still bring proof of vaccination to your cruise. Booked guests can get up-to-date information using the Cruise Personalizer tool. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. For passengers who are 5 and older and fully vaccinated, a COVID test is not required, but proof of vaccination is needed. The company requires vaccinated passengers to take a test only on sailings six nights or longer, but testing is still required for unvaccinated passengers on all sailings. All passengers will undergo a complimentary COVID-19 test during the pre-cruise hotel stay prior to embarkation. This article was originally published in February 2022. The restrictions requiring vaccines are dropping quickly. Major cruise lines that continue to have a masking policy in place for indoor public areas of their ships include Azamara, Cunard, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Viking. Keep in mind that even though face masks are no longer required for ships from the above cruise lines, they still may be required in specific venues such as the theater or kids clubs. The cruise line currently requires unvaccinated guests to have a vaccine exemption before they sail. Cruising is a popular way to explore the world, and many travelers are eager to get back on the open seas. The Splendor-class Carnival Splendor, with a guest capacity of 3,012, is offering both short and long cruises from Sydney, including ports of call such as Tasmania, New Zealand, and Queensland, as well as short getaways to nowhere. Starting Sept. 3, 2022, unvaccinated passengers ages 12 and older (or guests who cannot or decline to present proof of vaccination), need to provide a medically administrated negative PCR or antigen COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of boarding. These brands are Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Seabourn. Click on your favorite cruise line below to find out. Carnival Cruise Line. Unvaccinated guests are required to be tested. View Best Prices on Carnival, Celebrity Cruises Starting on Monday, September 5, 2022, all guests will be able to sail on Celebrity cruise ships, even if not vaccinated. American Queen VoyagesOn this lines river, ocean, Great Lakes and expedition ships, all passengers are required to be vaccinated. These Cruise Lines Are Requiring Passengers To Wear Masks Again All The Details. Many other cruise line operators and brands made similar protocol changes, including Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises. Masks and Physical Distancing Requirements: Masks are not required. Its possible a cruise line may accept one shot of a viral vector vaccine, such as AstraZeneca, and one shot of an mRNA vaccine, but this practice of mixing for a COVID-19 vaccine primary series isnt authorized yet in the US. Carnival, for example, says itll accept some vaccine exemptions from those ages 12 and younger, as well as adults who have that they cant be vaccinated but only at their Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Maryland, South Carolina and Alabama ports until the end of March 2022. Hell of a Cruise:Highlighting the panic, failures of the COVID early days. Fully vaccinated passengers do not have to test prior to sailing. Costa Cruises will also allow unvaccinated travelers to board sailings 14 nights or shorter in the Caribbean and Mediterranean beginning Oct. 8. Carnival Cruise Line won't require masks on board starting next month, making the company the latest cruise line to ditch mandatory face coverings. Given the significant, positive progress in the public health environment, the Cruise Line updated its health and safety guidelines, which are now more aligned with other global travel organizations. Those requirements would not be necessary on the same cruise without a stop in Colombia. Note that in some cases, the restrictions may depend on your departure point and the ships home port so always check before sailing. The chance of getting COVID-19 on cruise ships is high because the virus spreads easily between people in close quarters aboard ships. The testing and masking requirement specifics may differ by cruise or length of sail, but everyone age 2 and older should be prepared to be tested for COVID-19 before boarding, or during the journey when applicable, regardless of vaccination status. The CDC updated its guidelines on July 18 so that vaccination is no longer a requirement instead, its merely recommended. Guests can also visit www.ncl.com/freestyle-cruise/cruise-travel-documents for more information about the required travel documentation they will need for their NCL voyage. What other safety measures are in place: All ships have been equipped with High Efficiency Particular Air filters and buffets have been eliminated. At this date, Regent will adopt the following pre-cruise testing requirements, subject to local regulations: Explore Regent Seven Seas current health and safety protocols here. Vaccine requirements are starting to change, however. The guidance also makes it clear that 90% is what a high proportion of travelers means. As the COVID-19 pandemic slows down, eight cruise lines have just dropped their mask policies as of yesterday, February 28, and today, March 1, 2022. Also Check: Best Hotels Near Miami Cruise Port. Cruises from Florida and other ports of departure will still require the shot for those 12 and older in order to sail for the time being. Where they sail: Grand Circle Cruise Line sails small ships and river cruises all over the world, including an extensive list of European itineraries. The cruise line will still administer a COVID-19 antigen test to each guest prior to boarding, free of charge, and masks are required in public areas. CunardAll guests age 16 and up must be vaccinated, including with booster shots. When asked how Carnival intends to handle Floridas new law, a spokesperson did not comment on the decision to break from the law and instead referred NBC News to its frequently-asked-questions page, which states that guests will be asked to confirm their status as fully vaccinated for Covid-19 and provide proof of vaccination in advance of boarding, unless a vaccination exemption is given in advance. There is no definitive answer as to when a vaccine requirement to go on a cruise ship may go away, but at the very least it stands to reason not until the public health emergency ends. According to the Australian governments Department of Health and Aged Care, the country is experiencing a slight uptick in overall cases compared to previous months, with more than 54,000 new cases reported in the past week. Bottom line: If youve been vaccinated against COVID-19 outside of the US, check with your cruise line to make sure they accept your vaccine before putting any money down. Some cruise lines encourage vaccination even though they dont require it. Pre-voyage testing is not required for guests with proof of vaccination unless local regulations stipulate otherwise. If you know a bit about which brands belong to which company, youll recognize that these are all cruise lines under the Carnival Corporation and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings umbrellas. Starting in late February, Virgin Voyages adjusted its policies from requiring masks when indoors to going completely mask-free. Cruise lines make it clear that passengers must be fully vaccinated. Dont Miss: What Cruise Ships Sail Out Of San Francisco. Recommended Reading: When Are Cruise Ships Sailing Again. If you dont have the shot, then cruise lines are easing rules in that you dont have to be vaccinated to sail in many cases. Vaccine requirements are starting to change, however. Unvaccinated Guests: Are not permitted aboard. But now, little more than a year later, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has withdrawn its opt-in guidance for cruise lines, and many are now allowing more unvaccinated passengers to sail. Heres a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. In an abundance of caution in response to recent cases reported onboard cruise ships, Carnival Cruise Line has reintroduced mandatory mask wearing policies for the cruise lines sailings in Australia. Vaccinated travelers will not need to test before embarkation. Carnival Cruise Line updated its Have Fun. All guests and crew will be required to wear a mask onboard. All passengers age 4 and up must take a prearrival test and show a negative result to board. Unvaccinated passengers will be required to show a negative test for all trips. The question for Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian becomes which changes will lead to the most passengers on their ships? Yes. Crew will be tested regularly while on board. These links are signposted with an asterisk. Cruise ship operators, at their discretion, may designate areas as only accessible to fully vaccinated passengers and crew where masks and physical distancing are not required (e.g., casinos . Policy: Masks are not required onboard, except in the medical center. Were still requiring that the majority of Sailors be vaccinated, but were opening up our voyages for a limited number of unvaccinated Sailors to join us. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return. The Cruise Lines International Association has 60 members including Carnival and MSC Cruises. - As of Dec. 1, 2022, guests traveling with Azamara no longer need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 on sailings starting and ending in the U.S. or Europe. A. Prior to the pandemic, the industry directly and indirectly supported nearly 160,000 jobs in Florida. There are a few exceptions. All passengers over the age of 12 must be fully vaccinated. The reintroduced policy is effective immediately, and there is no announced end date for when it may be relaxed. It was most recently updated and republished on June 17, 2022. Can I Travel if I've Been Exposed to COVID-19? Will masks be required on cruise ships in 2022? MSCs policy toward vaccination for sailing from the United States is that while kids under 12 years old are allowed to sail unvaccinated, those older than that must have the shot. Recommended Reading: When Can You Book Excursions On Disney Cruise. All Contents Copyright 2022 Cruise Radio, Inc. | Website Designed by Insider Perks, Inc. Get the real facts delivered straight to your inbox, with trustworthy cruise related news.