Do I Have to Be Vaccinated to Cruise?

By Robert Palmer

With the ongoing pandemic, many people are wondering if they need to be vaccinated before they can go on a cruise. The answer is not straightforward and varies depending on the cruise line and the destination. In this article, we will explore the current requirements for vaccination on cruises.

Cruise Line Policies

Each cruise line has its own policy regarding vaccinations. Some require all passengers to be fully vaccinated, while others only recommend it. Here are some of the current policies:

  • Royal Caribbean: All guests 12 and older must be fully vaccinated for all sailings departing from the United States.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line: All guests must be fully vaccinated for sailings through December 31, 2021. Beginning January 1, 2022, unvaccinated guests will be subject to additional health and safety protocols.
  • Carnival Cruise Line: All guests must be fully vaccinated for sailings through December 31, 2021. Beginning January 1, 2022, unvaccinated guests may still sail but will be subject to additional testing and protocols.

Destinations

The vaccination requirements also vary depending on the destination of the cruise. Some countries require all visitors to have a COVID-19 vaccine certificate before entry.

  • Bahamas: All visitors over the age of 12 must show proof of full vaccination.
  • Greece: All visitors over the age of 12 must show proof of full vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within three days before arrival.

Additional Protocols

In addition to vaccination requirements, most cruise lines have implemented additional health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of all guests and crew members.

  • Mask-wearing: Many cruise lines require all guests to wear masks in certain areas of the ship, such as indoor public spaces or crowded outdoor areas.
  • Social distancing: Some cruise lines have reduced the capacity on their ships to allow for social distancing.
  • Testing: Some cruise lines require all guests to take a COVID-19 test before boarding the ship or during the cruise.

Conclusion

If you are planning a cruise, it is important to check the vaccination requirements of both the cruise line and the destination. Even if you are fully vaccinated, you may still be subject to additional health and safety protocols. By following these guidelines, we can all help ensure a safe and enjoyable cruising experience for everyone.