Florida’s law against vaccine passports complicated the return of cruises in the state. Businesses are not allowed to ask for proof of vaccination from both their customers and employees. Good thing, Celebrity Cruises was able to find a way to adjust to Florida’s law.
Celebrity Cruises passengers age 16 and up, except for those that are departing from Florida, will have to be fully vaccinated. Passengers will need to complete their vaccination 2 weeks before the planned sail date.
For Florida, Celebrity still recommends their passengers 16 years old and up to get vaccinated. Since cruise lines can’t require proof of vaccination, Celebrity Cruises found an alternative to guarantee the 95% vaccinated threshold among passengers and crew. Those who will decline or unable to show proof of vaccination “will be treated as unvaccinated”. They will also have to abide by additional protocols.
Costly Experience for Unvaccinated Passengers
For unvaccinated guests over 16, they will have to pay around $180 for onboard rapid tests. There will be four tests: one is a PCR test taken 72 hours before arriving at the terminal, an antigen test before boarding, another antigen test during the cruise itself, and a final antigen test at the end.
Also, they will not enjoy the same privileges as vaccinated guests. Those who are unvaccinated will have to wear masks at all times except when they are eating or drinking. For unvaccinated individuals, they will also have a designated seating area in some of the ships’ public venues.
According to Anthony Hamawy of Cruise.com, “They are allowing unvaccinated people to cruise but making it really undesirable to cruise if you’re unvaccinated”. Hamawy added that “It’s a smart move—they found a middle ground”.
Two Ships for the Summer
Celebrity Cruises will have two ships from Florida this summer. The Celebrity Edge is scheduled on June 26 and the Celebrity Equinox is scheduled on July 25. Both ships are sailing from Port Everglades.
