Find those polka dot bikinis, dig out the sun hat and book your trip today because cruising Is back baby! As of the 17^th April 2022, the ban is lifted and the horizon is in sight. Australians have always loved a good cruise, whether it be pacific, Caribbean, domestically or where ever the ship is going we were on it. Getting onboard, heading to the bar for cocktails, the luxury of being able to dine in several different facilities, the entertainment, the ports and all such an affordable way to travel. That is until the dread C virus…., hit the world, and changed everything as we know it.

Understandably some people are going to be a little hesitant, a cruise ship is a confined space. What if there is an outbreak, what If I catch covid and how are things changing. All reasonable concerns and questions but nothing that should hold you back from jumping back on board.

How are COVID19 protocols changing?

Cruise liners from all over the world have worked hard to install rigorous onboard COVID19 protocols, but just like getting on a plane, we all are still at risk.

Vaccine Mandates

Most cruise liners across the world are requiring all eligible passengers to be fully vaccinated (meaning two doses of Pfizer or Moderna, one dose of Johnson & Johnson, or a WHO-approved equivalent). It does become tricky as the cruise liners have to Aline their vaccination policy with those of the destinations that they are visiting. As the virus has spread, some cruise liners have put in place requirements of the booster shot as well. Please ensure you check the cruise lines policy before making a booking.

Testing

Before boarding the ship, all passengers and crew will have to undergo a covid test. Some cruise liners are only accepting PCRs however this might change in the foreseeable future. Onboard the ship, passengers may be required to test before any shore excursions or if they develop symptoms. The crew are routinely tested throughout the voyage to reduce the spread and isolate quickly if an infection is detected.

Do I have to wear a mask on board the ship?

You won’t be required to wear a mask however it is strongly recommended in small indoor settings such as elevators, stores, casinos and dining halls (except when eating and drinking)

What if there is an outbreak on board?

On some ships, contact tracers have been put in place to help track any outbreaks that may have occurred, but because passengers and crew are fully vaccinated the only requirement for isolation is if you are showing symptoms.

Gone are the days of the self-serve buffet

Most of the self-service buffets have not been transformed into meals being served to avoid unnecessary crowding and touching of utensils.

Updated tech

Some cruise liners are introducing RDID wristbands that are going to be your ticket to everything, turning on your cabin lights, getting your meals and acting as your key card. The wristband will link to a mobile app on your phone where you can track your spending.

QR codes are being brought in to bring up menus, it will all be accessed on your phone. A few restaurants are using this technology it is fantastic, so easy to use.

From where I am sitting the cruise industry are doing everything they can to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers, is it a risk to go cruising….yes…is it is a risk to cross a busy street in the city?….yes….we can’t keep hiding under a rock. Life is meant for living so let’s get out there and live (safely of course)

The cruise deals are going to be absolutely magical in the beginning, be prepared for discounts everywhere! But a word of warning, don’t wait too long the prices will have to rise and everything will go up that is inevitable. Check out Cruise critics specials some of them are unreal.