COVID and Cruising: How Cruise Lines are Adapting to Keep You Safe

COVID and Cruising: How Cruise Lines are Adapting to Keep You Safe

When it comes to vacation options this year, many people are hesitant to plan their trips due to COVID-19. Among all the travel choices, cruise ships are getting even more scrutiny given their past outbreaks and passengers confined to a ship for days or weeks.

However, cruise lines are working hard to assure their potential customers that it’s possible to go on a cruise and stay safe. In this article, we’ll explore what cruise lines are doing to adapt to the pandemic and what you can expect from your next cruise.

Health and Safety Protocols

For starters, all passengers are required to take a COVID-19 test before boarding. They’ll be denied boarding if they test positive or have symptoms. Once on board, everyone’s temperature will be checked regularly, and masks are required in public areas when social distancing is not possible.

Cruise ships are now operating at reduced capacity to encourage social distancing and leaving staterooms empty for at least 24 hours before an occupied stateroom is cleaned and sanitized.

Medical facilities on ships have been enhanced and now are better equipped to deal with COVID-19. All staff need to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when in contact with suspected or confirmed cases.

Dining and Entertainment

Gone (for now) are the buffet-style dining options commonly seen on cruises. Instead, meals will be served tableside, and arrangements can be made for in-room dining.

Entertainment and recreational activities that make social distancing impossible have been paused or changed, including excursions that involve large gatherings. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of on-board activities, like trivia nights, bingo, or virtual classes, practicing social distancing.

Moreover, cruise lines have revamped their ventilation systems to ensure there’s proper airflow and filtration. HEPA filters are being installed, and on some ships, the air is exchanged between indoor/outdoor spaces almost every hour.

What Happens If Someone Tests Positive?

In case of a positive COVID-19 test, that person (and their cabinmates or traveling companions) will be required to isolate in their rooms for 14 days. Contact tracing will be done to identify and track everyone they have been in close contact with.

The affected cabin and the areas they have been in will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. If necessary, arrangements will be made for medical evacuation, or the ship will return to its port of origin.

Wrap Up

Cruise lines are taking COVID-19 seriously and implementing necessary measures to ensure passengers’ safety. They’re constantly monitoring the situation and adjusting their protocols as needed. While there are still risks of cruising during a pandemic, these measures should go a long way to provide peace of mind for those who are looking to sail again.

That said, it’s essential to go through the policies and guidelines issued by cruise lines before you book. Make sure you understand all the precautions, requirements, and potential changes that can occur on the ship.

So why not consider a cruise for your next vacation? With proper planning and awareness, it could be an enjoyable and relaxing getaway from this stressful year. All you need to do is pack a mask, some sanitizers, and get ready for fun on an ocean liner.