Are you wondering if you can book a cruise now? With the ongoing pandemic, many people are understandably hesitant about making travel plans.
However, the cruise industry is slowly starting to open up again, with new protocols and safety measures in place. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the current state of the cruise industry and what you need to know before booking your next vacation.
Cruise Industry Update
The cruise industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. Many ships were stranded at sea at the beginning of the outbreak, and several high-profile outbreaks occurred onboard. As a result, many countries closed their ports to cruise ships, and many cruise lines suspended operations altogether.
However, things are starting to look up for the industry. Several major cruise lines have announced plans to resume sailings in late 2021 and early 2022. These include Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises.
Safety Protocols
To ensure the safety of passengers and crew members, cruise lines have implemented a range of new protocols. These include:
- Mandatory COVID-19 testing before boarding
- Reduced capacity onboard
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures
- Physical distancing requirements
- Wearing masks in certain areas onboard
Booking Considerations
If you’re thinking about booking a cruise now or in the near future, there are several things to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Flexibility
Given the ongoing uncertainty around travel restrictions and COVID-19 outbreaks, it’s important to be flexible with your travel plans. Make sure you understand the cancellation policies of your chosen cruise line and consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind.
Budget
Cruise lines have had to adjust their pricing to reflect the reduced capacity onboard and the cost of implementing new safety measures. As a result, you may find that some sailings are more expensive than usual. However, there are also deals to be found if you’re flexible with your dates and willing to book early.
Itinerary
Finally, consider the itinerary of your chosen cruise carefully. Some ports may still be closed or have limited activities available due to the pandemic. Make sure you’re comfortable with the ports of call and any restrictions or protocols in place before booking.
Conclusion
In summary, it is possible to book a cruise now, but there are important factors to consider before doing so. The cruise industry is slowly starting to recover from the pandemic, with new safety protocols in place to protect passengers and crew members. By being flexible, budget-conscious, and mindful of itinerary changes, you can plan a safe and enjoyable cruise vacation in the coming months.