CDC Updates Guidance on Mask Wearing and Port Visits for Vaccinated Guests
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for cruise line operators as a part of its operations manual for simulated and restricted voyages which were released last week. This new update specifically provides new guidelines for vaccinated guests and crew regarding mask-wearing and port visits.
The CDC states that its mask order will remain in effect for all simulated or restricted voyages, however it specifically calls out new guidelines for vaccinated passengers:
“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.”
This update offers more freedom for vaccinated guests traveling in port on simulated and restricted voyages. For fully vaccinated travelers, the CDC guidelines now state the following:
“Cruise ship operators, at their discretion, may advise passengers and crew that—if they are fully vaccinated—they may engage in self-guided or independent exploration during port stops, if they wear a mask while indoors. The cruise ship operator is additionally advised that foreign jurisdictions may have their own requirements.”
The CDC also updated guidance to cruise operators for unvaccinated passengers and port visits. To reduce the spread of COVID-19 it recommends lines:
“Consider prohibiting self-guided or independent exploration during port stops by passengers and crew who are not fully vaccinated. Offer supervised shore excursions during port stops for passengers and crew who are not fully vaccinated where all participants wear a mask and maintain physical distancing.”
This is a breaking news story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
Read More: CDC Issues New Guidance for Simulated Test Cruises
1 Comment
Posted by Thompsolonian
Glad the CDC is finally letting things open up. I expect a bit of a rough patch for cruise lines as they re-develop their flow and process, and I doubt all the initial cruises will go smoothly as the crew will have to re-learn their ships. It's all good though, we'll be back on the water sooner than we know it!