This week, the CDC updated its Conditional Sailing Order and loosened mask requirements for fully vaccinated passengers on cruise ships. In addition, passengers who have their Covid-19 vaccinations can explore independently on shore excursions and at ports of call. Both announcements are a major win for the cruise ship industry and cruise enthusiasts alike.
In the updated reopening rules, the CDC says cruise ship operators “at their discretion, may advise passengers and crew that — if they are fully vaccinated — they may gather or conduct activities outdoors, including engaging in extended meal service or beverage consumption, without wearing a mask except in crowded settings.”
Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean will not be requiring masks on their private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay . Norwegian Cruise Line has committed to sailing ships with 100 percent vaccinated passengers and crew through October.
The agency says those who are vaccinated “may engage in self-guided or independent exploration during port stops, if they wear a mask while indoors.” The CDC notes, however, that foreign countries could have their own requirements concerning independent port exploration.
If you have any questions on this topic, please do not hesitate to contact us. As always, we recommend that before you book your cruise, that you visit the CDC’s website where you can research different cruise ships to see how they performed in their last inspection. These random inspections verify that ships are maintaining a healthy and safe environment on board. Now in a post-Covid world, this type of preparedness and vigilance is key when booking your next cruise.
Aronfeld Trial Lawyers has obtained millions of dollars in compensation for injured cruise ship passengers with various cruise lines and cruise vessels. There are few injuries and accidents our Miami personal injury law firm has not dealt with, and we are prepared to take on any cruise accident case. For more information, call our office at 305-441-0440, or toll-free at 1-866-597-4529 or send us an email at [email protected].
