Royal Caribbean starts offering at-home COVID19 test kits online. These rapid antigen test kits received FDA approval for Emergency Authorization. Passengers can take the test in the comfort of their home but supervised live over video by a telehealth representative.
Using At-Home COVID19 Test Kits
Nasal swab results will appear within 15 minutes. After getting the result, the passenger will receive verified documentation that he or she can show at the pier. If the passenger tests positive, Royal Caribbean advises passengers to reschedule his or her travel plans.
The at-home COVID19 test kits are only for vaccinated passengers in the US. Canadian and international travelers who are outside the US will have to choose other testing options. These at-home COVID19 test kits are only approved in the US.
Guests can get the test kits from Royal Caribbean for $69.99 for two test kits and $99.99 for three test kits. The COVID19 test kits will arrive within three days according to Royal Caribbean.
Royal Caribbean suggests that travelers buy two test kits each passenger to be sure. There are instances when a passenger will contaminate or commit an error while doing the procedure.
Two-Day Test Requirement
Cruise lines are imposing stricter measures after some ships experienced positive cases on-board. CDC also updated its recommendations. The health agency recommends travelers to have their COVID19 test taken two days before boarding.
However, it still depends on the cruise line whether or not to follow this recommendation. Aside from recommending stricter testing, CDC also wants cruise lines to reconsider re-imposing stricter mask policy on-board. The agency initially said it is acceptable for vaccinated individuals to remove their masks.
Royal Caribbean imposed a two-day test requirement that applies even to vaccinated individuals. Passengers can still use antigen tests that they purchased on their own. However, the cruise line will still require the supervision of a telehealth representative.
For unvaccinated children 2 to 11 years old, they are required to show a negative PCR test result taken three days before boarding.
