Those passengers or those who are partially vaccinated will need to provide results of a negative antigen or molecular PCR test taken within 48 hours of embarkation, according to a news release. You May Like: How Big Are The Disney Cruise Ships. To avoid the chance of you missing your next cruise, whether domestic or international, we suggest being fully vaccinated. 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. VERIFY: Do cruise passengers have to show proof of vaccination? Royal Caribbean Group, which includes Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, will welcome all travelers regardless of vaccination status beginning Sept. 5 as long as testing requirements are met, a spokesperson told USA Today. Read Also: How Much Are Cruises Out Of Galveston. However, before they cruise, those without the shot will need to have a negative test taken within three days of cruising . Cruise lines are gradually easing restrictions and resuming operations, with some already allowing unvaccinated passengers to disembark. Virgin Voyages, a fledgling cruise line sailing one of its two ships, the Scarlet Lady, out of Miami, dropped the pre-cruise testing requirement after the CDC stopped monitoring covid on cruise ships. Virgin does not allow children on its ships, so it was sailing with 100% vaccination rates. Every other cruise line has a tough decision to make. Norwegian Cruise Line takes Florida to court over vaccine mandate ban, Celebrity Cruise Lines will not require proof of vaccination. The policy now reads, out of an abundance of caution, for the time being, masks are required in public indoor spaces.. This ensures you can sail stress-free knowing you wont have your voyage cut short due to any cruise vaccination policy when entering another state or territory. 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. Check your airlines protocols around testing, mask-wearing, vaccination, or quarantining if youre flying before or after the cruise. So, will you need a vaccine to cruise? The CDC says cruise lines can't allow "self-guided or independent exploration" at ports, and tour companies must still follow COVID-19 protocols like mask-wearing and social distancing. First and foremost, unvaccinated passengers of any age are allowed to sail the cruise line without having to first apply for an exemption as was previously required. Do I need a vaccine to cruise? Carnival Cruise LineOnly passengers on sailings to Canada, Bermuda, Greece and Australia, plus cruises of 16 nights or more, need to be fully vaccinated. Those requirements would not be necessary on the same cruise without a stop in Colombia. Vaccinated passengers dont need to test unless visiting Canada, Bermuda, Greece or Australia and on trips of 16 nights or longer. As with any rapidly changing scenario like this one, laws, and regulations change at a rapid pace, and this often affects your cruise vaccination requirements as well. Masks and Physical Distancing Requirements: Masks are not required. You can keep up with her on Instagram at @IAmSarahJaneB. Booster jabs are required where eligible and are considered effective immediately. Note that in some cases, the restrictions may depend on your departure point and the ships home port so always check before sailing. Note: Some destinations still require it and cruises that visit these countries will still have the COVID-19 vaccination requirement due to local laws. Main photo: a cruise ship docked near Grand Turk Island. 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. 3 things to know before stepping foot on the ship, When Can You Book Excursions On Disney Cruise, Spirit Of Washington Dc Sunset Dinner Cruise With Buffet, Toyota Fj Cruiser Trail Teams Ultimate Edition For Sale. Where they sail: Grand Circle Cruise Line sails small ships and river cruises all over the world, including an extensive list of European itineraries. Still, there are exceptions. In late July, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) withdrew its COVID-19 Program for cruise ships, allowing individual cruise lines to set their own standards. Because you may visit multiple locations on a cruise, you need to know the requirements for all your ports of call. It must be noted that at this time, this policy only impacts Carnival cruises in Australia, and masks are not required on any Carnival ships in other regions. Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew are required to be fully vaccinated with the booster shot. If you want to ensure you have a worry-free voyage, we strongly suggest reading these cruise health policies carefully. That meant they required just about everyone on board to have their shots, with few exceptions allowed for young children and people who cant be vaccinated due to medical conditions or religious beliefs. Cruising is a popular way to explore the world, and many travelers are eager to get back on the open seas. Is A Pre-Arrival COVID-19 Test Required? 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. : Yes American Queen is even vaccinating its shoreside employees. Recommended Reading: What Is Included In Crystal Cruises. Some cruise lines encourage vaccination even though they dont require it. While some cruise lines state theyll accept medical exemptions, others do not, and it also might depend on the port. On sailings departing Singapore, masks are mandatory on the ship when indoors. Bahamas and Caribbean cruises that leave from Florida ports still have vaccine rules in place. While the pandemic has made most of us equate vaccine with Covid-19, depending on where you travel, protecting your health by getting or boosting vaccinations for things hepatitis, yellow fever and other diseases may be required or recommended. Unvaccinated travellers need to present the results of a medically administered PCR or antigen test taken less than 72 hours before boarding. Celebrity CruisesBeginning September 5, all passengers regardless of vaccination status can cruise from the U.K., Europe, and Los Angeles. Guests must also wear masks during the entire embarkation and debarkation processes. As of November 17, 2022, Princess Cruise Lines has also reinstituted mandatory masks onboard for Australia and New Zealand sailings, stating that masking requirements may change at any time, so we ask for flexibility from our guests., Similarly, Royal Caribbean International also states that all guests should wear a mask while travelling through the terminal and in public indoor spaces or crowded outdoor spaces onboard and that protocols are subject to change.. Those who are unvaccinated or unable to verify vaccination will be required to undergo testing and follow other protocols, which will be announced at a later date. For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPGs new cruise newsletter. While each cruise line might accept different ones, the major vaccines Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca all seem to have wide acceptance. Carnival has also removed the mask mandate from its ships. The company plans to start sailing again in August, including to Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Amateur web practitioner. 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. Dont Miss: What Cruise Lines Go To Tahiti. Most major cruise lines do not require guests to be vaccinated unless theyre traveling from or to a destination that requires it. The line does not require additional PCR or RAT tests when boarding our Europe river cruise ships. Just a few weeks prior, the line had opened its ships up to unvaccinated kids under 5. 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. This includes vaccines such as AstraZeneca and Sinovac. First and foremost, unvaccinated passengers of any age are allowed to sail the cruise line without having to first apply for an exemption as was previously required. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return.. Yes. Guests who choose not to be vaccinated or not willing to verify vaccination will be subject to testing and additional health protocols which will be at their expense. Others have eliminated both Covid vaccination requirements and testing requirements for some, but not all, passengers based on itineraries or cruise lengths. As long as Covid-19 remains a pandemic, it seems unlikely cruise lines will change protocols. Don't get me wrong, I totally support the wearing of masks in the general public because we don't know who is and is not vaccinated. For general information on testing, please refer to our article on cruise testing requirements. 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.. Carnival no longer requires masks on its ships. Carnival Cruise Line wont require unvaccinated guests to apply for an exemption to sail after Sept. 6. For all country specific travel requirements, travelers should visit www.ncl.com/travel-requirements-by-country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ended its COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships on July 18, after which many cruise lines that had opted in eased their protocols. 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. Currently, booster shots are not required for any passengers. Younger passengers are not subject to any vaccination requirements or testing protocols. As the threat of Covid-19 begins to diminish, there is a possibility cruise lines may relax health protocols, including allowing unvaccinated people to go on a cruise ship. You can also work with a local travel medicine clinic to determine what vaccinations or preventative measures are recommended based on your itinerary. Disney Cruise Lines joins Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Holland America Line, which no longer require vaccinations on most sailings. Who Needs to Be Vaccinated: All passengers, no exceptions, need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All products and brands mentioned in this article are selected by our writers and editors based on first-hand experience or customer feedback. Unvaccinated passengers will need to test before boarding. 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. All passengers over the age of 12 must be fully vaccinated. Recommended Reading: When Can You Book Excursions On Disney Cruise. What other safety measures are in place: All ships have been equipped with High Efficiency Particular Air filters and buffets have been eliminated. Virgin does not allow children on its ships, so it was sailing with 100% vaccination rates. "There may, however, be certain venues and events where masks will be required," said the brand. On Alaska voyages between Whittier and Vancouver, they are required on the ship when indoors. If you are allowed onboard, you will need to be tested precruise, which is required for unvaccinated children as well. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return.. We previously reported in our guide to cruise lines mask policies article that a large number of brands would be dropping all mask requirements onboard their ships as of today. 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. Guests who have certain pre-existing medical conditions . In addition, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian sail to a lot more ports than Virgin Voyages does, and cruise ships must also comply with local rules (and some destinations require vaccinations for anyone ages 12 and over even if they dont get off the ship. A precruise test is no longer required on the river ships. Our Crew will remain fully vaccinated as they are now. View Best Prices on Celebrity, Read Also: Last Minute Cruise Deals Tampa. Masks and Physical Distancing Requirements: Masks may be required in public areas on the ship . If Cruises Sail With Vaccinated & Unvaccinated Passengers, Is Everything Back to Normal? There are, of course, also some passengers who have not sailed because they are not vaccinated or dont care to share their vaccination status with a cruise line. Some people waited to cruise until masks were no longer required while others wont step onboard until every covid-related protocol goes away. You may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. Celebrity Cruises Now, the cruise brand owned by billionaire Richard Branson has quietly decided to allow some unvaccinated sailors, as it calls its passengers, on its upcoming voyages. Carnival Cruise Line Carnival has joined the CDC programme so, effective with cruises departing March 1, masks on board will be recommended but not required on US sailings. The line also warns that masks could be required by some ports of call its ships visit. 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. This simplifies the requirements to sail. MORE: 8. DeSantis To Appeal Preliminary Injunction Allowing Norwegian Cruises To Require Vaccines. Heres a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. However, with certain destinations still enforcing vaccine and/or testing requirements, be sure to research your cruise itinerary thoroughly before booking if you want to avoid potential restrictions in countries that have still not fully reopened to all travelers. Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise lines health and safety protocols. General zombie trailblazer. Vaccine requirements are starting to change, however. The cruise line has a limited but growing presence in the U.S., with cruises from Florida and New York. The cruise line states some itineraries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to travel, and that instructors will be sent out 30 days prior to travel. Details: Royal Caribbeans latest mask policy. Azamara. Policy: Masks are not required onboard, except for in a few select indoor locations. With more and more cruise lines dropping all COVID-related travel requirements, its back to cruising as usual. Is A Pre-Arrival COVID-19 Test Required? Children who are aged 4 or younger do not need vaccination proof or a COVID test. Sarah has been writing about the cruise industry since 2015. On Royal Caribbean, theyre also required for all kids two and older (regardless of vaccination status) in the Adventure Ocean kids program. Typical bacon geek. Cruise lines have begun modifying their vaccination and testing policies surrounding COVID-19, with numerous cruise lines once again allowing unvaccinated passengers to set sail as of September 2022, provided they test negative for COVID-19 first. Dont Miss: Cruise Ship With Go Kart Track. Some cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, accept vaccines recommended or approved by the World Health Organization as well as the CDC. Here is a current list of cruise line that have, or will eliminate the vaccine requirement to sail on one of their cruise ships. 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. All passengers will undergo a complimentary COVID-19 test during the pre-cruise hotel stay prior to embarkation. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally, and the rules can changesometimes overnight. Cruise lines have their own rules countries have their own rules. That creates a peace of mind you dont get on other types of vacations. Most lines only accept vaccines recognized and approved by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard. Policy: In general, masks are not required onboard. "Effective with sailings departing March 1 . CunardAll guests age 16 and up must be vaccinated, including with booster shots. 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. Crew Vaccinated? There are exceptions, however, such as dining venues, where guests can eat and drink without face . For Royal Caribbean, the changes include sailings from Los Angeles, New Orleans, Galveston and Europe. There are, of course, also some passengers who have not sailed because they are not vaccinated or dont care to share their vaccination status with a cruise line. Prior to the pandemic, the industry directly and indirectly supported nearly 160,000 jobs in Florida. For passengers who are 5 and older and fully vaccinated, a COVID test is not required, but proof of vaccination is needed. Vaccinated passengers dont need to test unless visiting Canada, Bermuda, Greece or Australia and on trips of 16 nights or longer. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return. Where Are Norwegian Cruise Ships Registered, Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Reykjavik Iceland, How Much Are Drinks On Viking River Cruises, Which Side Of The Ship Is Better For Alaska Cruise, How To Get Off Viking Cruises Mailing List, Highlighting the panic, failures of the COVID early days, ended its COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships, ropped the pre-cruise testing requirement, Which Cruise Line Gives The Best Military Discount, What Time Does The Victory Casino Cruise Sail, which requires guests to bring proof of vaccination, www.ncl.com/travel-requirements-by-country, www.ncl.com/freestyle-cruise/cruise-travel-documents, some itineraries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to travel, Last Minute Cruise Deals For Florida Residents, Toyota Fj Cruiser Trail Teams Ultimate Edition For Sale, Do Mississippi River Cruises Have Casinos. Some of its current passengers have chosen to sail because every adult onboard has been tested and vaccinated. Dont Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip! The cruise line currently requires unvaccinated guests to have a vaccine exemption before they sail. Not sure where to go? For instance, a Panama Canal cruise making a stop in Colombia triggers vaccine requirements for ports later in the itinerary. Oceania CruisesFully vaccinated passengers aged 12 and older dont need a test to embark. As the United States has opened up again following the worst of the pandemic, many people have returned to a normal way of life. Azamara is one of the cruise lines that no longer requires passengers to wear masks on their ships, although they still recommend them. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. Azamara is one of the cruise lines that no longer requires passengers to wear masks on their ships, although they still recommend them. As well, no vaccine will be required if sailing from Europe. The guidance also makes it clear that 90% is what a high proportion of travelers means. Heres what you need to know. It was most recently updated and republished on June 17, 2022. VERIFY: Do cruise passengers have to show proof of vaccination? And you may have to be vaccinated or not. Also Check: Best Hotels Near Miami Cruise Port Virgin Voyages Vaccine Policy Masks are also now required in outdoors for any large crowded events where guests cannot appropriately distance, such as during deck parties, as well as while on shore tour buses or tenders, or while indoors on any shore excursion. This isnt an easy decision, because its partially about peoples health and partially about keeping your business healthy. In compliance with U.K. guidance, Fred. All guests on all sailings through the end of 2022 with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection are required to be fully vaccinated. The question for Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian becomes which changes will lead to the most passengers on their ships? Dont Miss: Do Any Cruise Lines Allow Dogs. Carnival Cruise Line is now requiring all guests and crew to wear masks aboard two vessels, and other cruise lines are doing the same. Otherwise all guests must be fully vaccinated 14 days before departure.