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As summer 2021 unfolds, the travel industry is experiencing a resurgence, with cruise bookings nearing levels seen before the pandemic. After a long pause due to COVID-19, travelers are eager to explore again, leading to a surge in airline, hotel, and rental car reservations. However, the cruise industry, which was one of the first sectors to shut down during the outbreak, is now promoting itself as the “safest vacation available.” But is that really the case?
The world is still grappling with the pandemic, and recent reports highlight ongoing challenges. Over the weekend, it was revealed that two passengers on a simulated Royal Caribbean cruise from the Bahamas tested positive for COVID-19. These individuals were aboard the Adventure of the Seas, which mandates vaccinations for passengers over 16. Unfortunately, the two affected passengers, both under the age of 16, were not vaccinated and tested positive during routine checks before their return home. This sparked criticism from some, questioning the decision of an adult to take an unvaccinated child on a cruise.
In response to the positive tests, both passengers were quarantined. According to a Royal Caribbean representative, one of them was asymptomatic, while the other exhibited mild symptoms. All other passengers in their party, as well as their close contacts, had been vaccinated and tested negative for the virus.
This incident is not isolated; earlier this month, two individuals aboard another cruise tested positive for COVID-19 despite being vaccinated. Additionally, another Royal Caribbean journey had to postpone its launch after eight crew members contracted the virus. Cruise lines acknowledge that COVID-19 infections are to be expected and assert they are implementing stringent health and safety measures to protect passengers.
As reported by CNN Travel, ships are currently operating at reduced capacity, have enhanced medical facilities, and utilize rapid testing procedures. Depending on vaccination status, face masks may be required in various areas onboard.
Martyn Griffiths from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) stated to CNN Travel that cruise ships provide “one of the safest vacation environments available today.” He emphasized the effectiveness of their protocols, noting that over 550,000 passengers have sailed without any major outbreaks onboard.
However, the enforcement of health measures and vaccination requirements varies by cruise line. A representative from Carnival Corporation, which owns several cruise brands, mentioned that no definitive decision has been made regarding vaccination policies. While Carnival Cruise Line plans to require vaccinations for its upcoming sailings from Florida, it remains uncertain if this requirement will change due to a recent court ruling allowing cruises from Florida to operate without mandatory vaccinations.
Celebrity Cruises, on the other hand, has opted not to require vaccinations for all guests. Instead, they will impose a surcharge on unvaccinated guests, require them to wear masks, and potentially restrict their access to certain areas of the ship.
Other cruise lines are also taking different approaches; MSC Cruises has not mandated vaccinations for current voyages, while Disney Cruise Line requires vaccinations for all guests over 18 on its upcoming UK sailing. Norwegian Cruise Line aims for a 100% vaccination policy when it resumes voyages, and Royal Caribbean mandates vaccinations for all adult guests on most cruises, except those departing from Florida ports.
So, is cruising truly the safest vacation option? The mixed vaccination policies across the industry and reported COVID-19 cases certainly raise questions. Perhaps a more cautious and responsible approach to travel is warranted, in honor of those who have lost their lives to COVID-19.
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Summary:
The cruise industry is attempting to position itself as the safest vacation option amid rising COVID-19 cases, despite recent positive tests among passengers. With varying vaccination policies and health measures, travelers are encouraged to approach cruising with caution and responsibility.
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