Cruise Industry Announces Mandatory Health Protocols
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which represents 95% of global ocean-going cruise capacity, along with its cruise line members have adopted mandatory health protocols that will be implemented as part of a phased-in, highly-controlled return to cruising. This is an important next step in North America following effective sailings in Europe, which are following strict health and safety protocols.
Highlights of the mandatory health protocols include:
- Testing. 100% testing of passengers and crew for COVID-19 prior to embarkation.
- Mask-Wearing. Mandatory wearing of masks by all passengers and crew onboard and during excursions whenever physical distancing cannot be maintained
- Distancing. Physical distancing in terminals, onboard ships, on private islands, and during shore excursions
- Ventilation. Air management and ventilation strategies to increase fresh air onboard and, where feasible, use enhanced filters and other technologies to mitigate risk
- Medical Capability: Risk-based response plans tailored for each ship to manage medical needs, dedicated cabin capacity allocated for isolation and other operational measures, and advance arrangements with private providers for shoreside quarantine, medical facilities, and transportation.
- Shore Excursions: Only permit shore excursions according to the cruise operators’ prescribed protocols, with strict adherence required of all passengers and denial of re-boarding for any passengers that do not comply.
These protocols will require written verification of adoption by each cruise line company’s CEO and are in addition to health and safety measures set by individual lines. These procedures will be continuously evaluated and adjusted against the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the availability of new prevention and mitigation measures.
Join the discussion
What do you think about the mandatory health protocols for a safe return to the seas? Tell us in the comments.
3 Comments
Posted by ekultgen
The only thing I would add would be provision for those passengers over 65 who wish to be segregated from younger passengers wherever feasible. For instance, a senior section in the main dining area or theater, a partitioned area for on deck lounging, one or more senior-only excursions, even limited cabin sections on two or more decks are possibilities. I think availability of such options would reassure many travelers my age or older who are at increased risk should a case of the disease occur on board despite all precautions, and the cost to the cruise line should be minimal.
Posted by BocaBabe
Have cruise planned on Apex in February. Will not wear a mask. No interest in planned excursions. Will be canceling!
Posted by ConteCimentos
I understand the reasoning, but, after 15 cruises "Goodbye, cruising."