Cruise Lines Vaccination Requirements: What You Need to Know

Are you planning a cruise and wondering which cruise lines require vaccinations? With the pandemic still ongoing, many cruise companies have implemented new policies to ensure the safety of their passengers. Royal Caribbean, for example, requires all crew members to be fully vaccinated and get a booster dose as they go. Depending on the government travel policies of the countries you're sailing to, your cruise company may also ask you to get a booster shot. Face masks are mandatory on Pearl Seas Cruises in indoor public spaces, unless you're sitting and actively eating or drinking.

On American Cruise Lines, face masks are optional. If you don't meet the requirements, the cruise fare refund for unused cruise days or travel expenses (if you fly home) will not be covered. As many cruise companies lift their restriction on unvaccinated children and begin to welcome them aboard, questions continue to arise about each cruise line's policy on whether children need the vaccine to sail. Cruise lines that have vaccination requirements to sail will likely request proof upon boarding.

Passengers who test positive when boarding and their traveling companions in the same cabin, along with other close contacts, will not be able to travel by cruise ship and will be granted a cruise credit in the future. After two years of first banning cruise ships and after warning of their health and safety risks due to the pandemic, the agency removed cruise ships from its warning list in late March. Guests under 12 years of age traveling from Athens should be tested for antigens at the pier and again at the end of the cruise. Cruising is a great way to explore new places and have fun with family and friends. However, it's important to make sure you understand each cruise line's policy on vaccinations before booking your trip. Knowing what is required can help ensure that your vacation is safe and enjoyable.

Elise Thorne
Elise Thorne

Amateur zombie evangelist. Proud musicaholic. Amateur web practitioner. General zombie trailblazer. Award-winning beer ninja. Typical bacon geek.