Calling the return of cruises complicated is an understatement. After more than a year of inactivity, the CDC finally gave the industry the go signal to restart. But just when things are looking hopeful, the delta variant made it complicated for cruise operators. To keep everyone safe, cruise line health protocols have been updated.
Masking Even for Vaccinated Passengers
One of the biggest changes in cruising is the return of mask requirement even for vaccinated passengers. Apart from wearing masks, updated cruise line health protocols will also require passengers to show a negative COVID test.
Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy said that “These new requirements are being implemented to protect our guests and crew while on board”.
Disney Cruise Line also announced an updated guideline for their passengers. The company says that Disney “strongly encourages” guests to get vaccinated. Passengers will also need to show a negative COVID test. And since there will be kids on board, all guests 2 years old and up will have to wear masks in indoor public places. Disney took out opportunities to take close-up photos with Disney characters. However, it promised to give “opportunities to capture physically distanced photos” with their characters.
No More Buffets
If you’ve been on a cruise ship, one of the most iconic things that most passengers love is the buffet. Unfortunately, most cruise lines took out self-serve buffets in their updated health protocols. Carnival is the only cruise that still has a buffet. The good news is that you can still enjoy unlimited foods but crew members will now place portions on your plate.
Bubbles and Other Cruise Line Health Protocols
There will also be changes when it comes to shore excursions. There will be cruise operators that will require guests to stay within their small group or bubble. Also, the itineraries will be led by cruise partners.