The Miami-based cruise brand said that as of Sept. 5, COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be required for cruises from US ports in California, Louisiana and Texas, as well as from all ports in Europe. However, most passengers departing from all other US states will still need them.
In addition, even flights from Texas and Louisiana, where passengers no longer need to be vaccinated, have an exception. If tourists are planning to get off the ship in Grand Cayman — a traditional stop for most cruise liners — they must be prepared to present a valid certificate.
Another subtlety. Passengers on European flights who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 in accordance with European standards will be required to be tested for COVID-19 already on board in order to disembark in Greece and Spain.
So far Royal Caribbean only allowed unvaccinated passengers under the age of 12 — and then in limited quantities. Adults were required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to sailing on any itinerary worldwide.
Subbrand of Royal Caribbean Celebrity Cruisesmade a similar announcement about its vaccination policy late Wednesday night, lifting mandatory vaccinations effective September 5, but also not on all flights. Vaccination is not required for Celebrities sailing from European countries, with the exception of Iceland. However, vaccine requirements for flights from Florida, Los Angeles and several other destinations remain in place.
These two announcements come just two days after Norwegian Cruise Line and its subsidiaries Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises became the first major cruise brands to announce the elimination of COVID-19 vaccination requirements.
The last three The brand said their new no-vaccination policy applies to the entire fleet. But without the “asterisk” It didn’t work out either: the clarification states that “COVID-19 vaccines are still required for cruises where local regulations require it.”