Italy has always been a popular destination for cruise ships, with its beautiful coastline and picturesque towns. However, the outbreak of COVID-19 has hit the tourism industry hard, and many countries, including Italy, have had to make changes to their policies regarding cruise ships.
Italy’s Initial Ban on Cruise Ships
In March 2020, Italy was one of the first countries to impose a ban on cruise ships due to the pandemic. The ban was initially set to last until April 3rd, but it was later extended until July 31st. This meant that no cruise ships were allowed to dock in Italian ports during this time.
The New Policies
However, as the situation in Italy improved and restrictions were eased, the government announced new policies regarding cruise ships. From August 15th onwards, Italy began allowing limited numbers of cruise ships to dock in its ports.
Requirements for Cruise Ships
To be allowed entry into Italian ports, cruise ships must comply with specific requirements. These include:
- All passengers and crew members must undergo temperature checks before boarding.
- Passengers must fill out a health declaration form before boarding.
- Crew members must have been tested for COVID-19 at least 72 hours before departure.
- The ship must not have had any confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
Increased Safety Measures Onboard
Cruise lines have also implemented new safety measures onboard their ships. These include:
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitization procedures throughout the ship.
- Social distancing measures in restaurants and public areas.
- Increased availability of hand sanitizer stations throughout the ship.
- Mandatory mask-wearing in certain areas where social distancing is difficult.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Italy is now accepting limited numbers of cruise ships to dock in its ports. However, there are strict requirements that must be met, and cruise lines have implemented new safety measures onboard their ships to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members. If you’re planning a cruise to Italy, make sure to check with your cruise line for the latest information on entry requirements and safety measures.