Are Cruise Ships Allowed to Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

By Michael Ferguson

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, with several industries being affected. One such industry that has been hit hard is the travel industry, including cruise ships.

The question on everyone’s mind is – are cruise ships allowed to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic? Let’s find out.

Background

Cruise ships have been in the news for all the wrong reasons during the pandemic. The close quarters of a ship make it an ideal breeding ground for viruses and diseases to spread quickly. There have been several instances where cruise ships have had to quarantine passengers due to outbreaks of COVID-19 onboard.

Travel Restrictions

Most countries have imposed travel restrictions on cruise ships due to the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States has a no-sail order in place until September 2021, which prohibits all cruise ship operators from operating in U.S. waters.

Similarly, Canada has also banned all cruise ships carrying more than 100 people until February 2022. Several other countries have also implemented similar restrictions.

Health Protocols

Cruise ship operators are taking several measures to ensure that their ships are safe for passengers during these times. These measures include mandatory testing before boarding, reduced capacity onboard, enhanced cleaning protocols, and social distancing measures.

Future Outlook

The future of cruising remains uncertain during these times. While some countries are slowly easing restrictions on cruise ships, it may be a while before we see things return to normal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, most countries have imposed travel restrictions on cruise ships due to the pandemic. Cruise ship operators are taking several measures to ensure that their ships are safe for passengers during these times. However, it may be a while before we see things return to normal in the cruising industry.

  • Key Takeaways:
    • Cruise ships have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Most countries have imposed restrictions on cruise ships.
    • Cruise ship operators are taking several measures to ensure passenger safety.
    • The future of cruising remains uncertain during these times.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or legal advice. It is advisable to check with your local authorities and cruise operators for the latest information on travel restrictions and health protocols before embarking on a cruise during the pandemic.