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Embarkation Protocols – Greece

Page updated on 3rd October, 2023

Current Requirements

If you have any questions arising from this document please contact our customer service team.

Travelling into Greece

We recommend that you check entry requirements in regards to travel from your place of origin. Requirements to enter the country may differ from one country to another.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for both your cruise and entire trip, from the time you leave home until the time you return.

Step-by-Step Guide to Boarding Our Ship

Document Check

You will need to present your e-ticket, passport, visa (if applicable), and the public health questionnaire downloadable here . The health questionnaire should be completed no earlier than 24hrs prior to the cruise departure and handed in to the land staff at embarkation.

Luggage Drop

Once you have successfully completed the document check you will then proceed to the luggage drop off point where your luggage will be tagged with your stateroom or suite number. Your luggage will be scanned for security reasons by the local port authorities and then it will be transferred to the vessel for further delivery to your stateroom by our crew members.

Once you have dropped your luggage, you are clear to proceed into the terminal and carry out your check-in with our embarkation team. Here you will present your passport, this will be exchanged with your boarding pass which must stay with you throughout the cruise. Your boarding pass acts as your passport when visiting ports, as your personal identification card onboard, as your stateroom key and also your on board charge card for purchases. If you have booked a suite, SG, SB on Celestyal Olympia and SP or SG on Celestyal Journey, please contact our land staff who will ensure that check in is done swiftly. A specific line will be reserved for those of you who have already completed the online check in where our staff will assist you promptly. Your passport may be kept by the ship’s purser to clear immigration at every port and returned to you the night before the end of your cruise. You will be asked to register a credit or a debit card against your stateroom or suite, to allow purchases of any extras on board. Please note: cash is not accepted on board in any of our bars, restaurants or shops. Instead all purchases are charged to your account and settled at the end of your cruise. In case you require assistance with a wheelchair please contact our land staff.

Once you have completed your check-in you will proceed to security. Just like the airports you are required to put all your belongings you are carrying as hand luggage into a tray and pass them through the scanners. You will have to pass through the walk through metal scanners. If you have a medical condition which exempts you from passing through the scanners please advise the port security at the time and have any supporting medical certificates necessary to present. For items that are not allowed on board, please see "What not to pack" .

Embark the ship

It is just a short walk or shuttle bus to the ships gangway. When entering the ship our security will scan your boarding card to register you are on the ship. Please note your boarding pass will be scanned every time you embark or disembark the ship. Please do not attempt to go ashore without your boarding pass, as you will be denied entry or exit.

Lifeboat/Muster Drill on Day 1

To comply with all safety regulations and ensure the highest safety standards are maintained, one guest drill and various crew drills and training exercises will be conducted during the cruise. A compulsory passengers’ muster will be held prior to departure. You will be required to wear your life jacket and to muster at your muster station where you will be given safety instructions and become familiar with your station. The time of the drill is notified in the daily program and will be communicated by an announcement over the public address system and the sounding of the emergency signal.

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Do I need a COVID vaccine to cruise? A line-by-line guide

When the first cruises allowing Americans restarted in spring 2021, all major lines were sailing with at least 90% of passengers vaccinated against COVID-19. That meant they required just about everyone on board to have their shots, with only a few exceptions allowed for young children and people who can't be vaccinated due to medical conditions or religious beliefs.

Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has withdrawn its opt-in guidance for cruise lines, and most are now allowing unvaccinated passengers to sail. In fact, most aren't even checking to see if cruisers are vaccinated or not.

However, with cases picking up seasonally and new booster vaccines rolling out, will you need a vaccine to cruise? Click on your favorite cruise line above, under "Jump to Section," to find out.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

Note: In order to be considered "fully vaccinated," passengers must have received their final shot (not including boosters) at least 15 days prior to embarkation. Most lines only accept vaccines (or a combination of vaccines) recognized and approved by the World Health Organization and the CDC. Generally, proof of inoculation must include your name, the type of vaccine you received and the dates on which you received all required doses.

Booster shots are not required unless specifically noted. However, keep in mind that the rules may vary by country, with some lines requiring boosters for international departures due to local regulations or for extra-long sailings like ocean crossings when port calls are few or nonexistent. Passengers who have their boosters are considered "up to date" rather than merely "fully vaccinated."

For general information on testing, please refer to our article on cruise testing requirements .

AmaWaterways

Vaccine required no.

AmaWaterways no longer requires proof of vaccination for passengers. However, cruisers are responsible for meeting the requirements of the countries in which they'll be traveling. If they do not, standard cancellation fees will apply. Pre-cruise testing is not required. Should passengers become ill during their cruise, AmaWaterways will assist in procuring testing and other medical services, which will be the financial responsibility of those guests.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines does not have a vaccine requirement for all passengers on any of its sailings. Pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

American Queen Voyages

Vaccines are not required to sail with American Queen Voyages , and pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

Related: What happens if someone tests positive for COVID-19 on your cruise

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Vaccination is not mandatory for Atlas cruises, but passengers must comply with regulations in countries on their scheduled itinerary, which could require that they be up to date on their shots. Additionally, pre-cruise testing is no longer a requirement.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to passenger boarding. However, mandatory testing and proof of vaccination could still be required in some countries the line visits.

Azamara recommends that passengers follow local regulations and the latest guidance from government health organizations when determining which vaccines to obtain prior to travel. The line also does not require negative test results in order to board unless mandated by local governments in the ports where the line's ships sail.

Carnival Cruise Line

Neither vaccines nor pre-cruise testing is required for Carnival sailings. However, the line recommends that anyone 5 years or older be up to date on their shots and carry proof. It also suggests that cruisers test themselves no further than three days from their sailing date to make sure they're in good health.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity does not mandate vaccination or testing for any passenger on any sailing unless required by regulations in the ports its ships are visiting.

Related: Cruise ship contact tracing: How the world's major lines are tracking COVID-19 exposure

Celestyal Cruises

Celestyal continues to require all crew members to be fully vaccinated, but passengers don't have to be. The line recommends anyone 12 and older be up to date on their inoculations. Testing is also no longer necessary in order to board Celestyal ships.

Cunard Line

Although Cunard suggests that travelers be fully vaccinated and current with their boosters, proof of immunization is not required, nor is pre-cruise testing for any of the line's sailing unless required by law.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line encourages — but does not require — all passengers to be fully vaccinated before sailing. It also recommends pre-cruise testing, no more than two days prior to embarkation, for anyone who doesn't have their shots.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises suggests that all passengers be vaccinated, but it no longer checks for proof. Pre-cruise testing is also no longer required, but the line advises travelers to check local regulations in the places they'll be visiting.

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Vaccine required yes.

Grand Circle has mandated that all passengers must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to embarkation as a condition of carriage, and proof must be provided before boarding. Passengers who are not fully vaccinated will have to return home at their own expense. Boosters are not mandatory. Pre-cruise testing might be required, depending on your port of embarkation. (The line will send you that information prior to your sailing.)

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd does not require vaccinations or pre-cruise testing as a condition of sailing. However, the line recommends both to passengers as precautions. It also advises that cruisers are responsible for knowing and adhering to all local guidelines and regulations.

Holland America

Holland America now allows unvaccinated passengers to sail and does not make pre-cruise testing compulsory unless either of these is required by local regulations in the areas its vessels sail. Booked cruisers can search for requirements specific to their individual sailings by using this tool .

Hurtigruten

Vaccine required sometimes.

On expedition cruises with Hurtigruten , passengers are not required to show proof of vaccination, except on 2023 and 2024 voyages to Antarctica and the Northwest Passage or West Africa sailings departing from and returning to Dakar. Immunization is also not necessary for the line's non-expedition itineraries, but it is recommended for both coastal voyages and expedition cruises. Neither type of cruise requires negative test results as a condition of embarkation. Passengers with reservations can check specific protocols for their specific bookings using this tool .

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad passengers no longer need to provide proof of vaccination in order to cruise, and pre-cruise testing is no longer required, including at embarkation. Exceptions might apply for departures from certain destinations. The line urges passengers to follow government recommendations for masking, testing and vaccination.

Related: Why I feel safer now on a cruise ship than in my hometown

MSC Cruises

Vaccination and testing are no longer terms of carriage when sailing with MSC Cruises . The line still recommends that passengers receive their shots and notes that it's each passenger's responsibility to comply with local regulations in the places their sailing visits.

Norwegian Cruise Line

In early August 2022, Norwegian Cruise Line became the first major cruise line to roll back its vaccination requirements. Proof of immunization is no longer required, nor is testing in order to board for any voyage.

Oceania Cruises

Upscale cruise line Oceania does not check vaccination records for passengers, nor does it require pre-cruise testing for its sailings.

P&O Cruises

There are no vaccination or testing mandates in place for any of P&O Cruises ' voyages.

Ponant 's website simply reads, "when you visit certain destinations, vaccines can be recommended," but they are not required by the line. Ponant also says it will alert passengers to their specific requirements after they have booked a voyage. Testing is also not needed in order to board.

Princess Cruises

Following an industry-wide rollback of protocols, Princess passengers no longer have to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine, nor proof of a negative test result, unless either is required by local regulations. Passengers are responsible for knowing the requirements for the places their ships will visit.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent doesn't check the vaccination status of any of its passengers unless required by local protocols. Testing requirements vary by location and might depend on whether or not you are up to date on your shots. If vaccination or testing is required, the line will alert cruisers approximately 30 days prior to their sailing date.

Royal Caribbean

To board Royal Caribbean ships, you don't have to be vaccinated or provide test results. However, the line advises staying up to date on inoculations and following guidelines issued by federal health authorities.

Saga has rolled back its vaccination and testing requirements, which is significant, given that the line only allows passengers 50 and older to sail on its vessels. They will only be required if local authorities dictate them.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Passengers embarking on river and ocean voyages with Scenic will not need to be fully immunized prior to sailing. Testing is not required by the line but might be needed to enter the country in which you're embarking on your sailing. Passengers are responsible for meeting entry requirements.

For cruises with luxury line Seabourn , there are no line-enforced regulations for vaccination or testing unless required by local authorities in the countries on which its vessels call. To see if your booked sailing requires either of these, check out the line's search tool .

Luxury brand Silversea does not require shots for its passengers or pre-cruise tests unless they're needed to meet local regulations.

Star Clippers

Star Clippers has eliminated all vaccine checks and testing protocols for all passengers on all voyages.

For all voyages through 2023, Tauck requires passengers 12 and older to be fully vaccinated and have at least one booster dose and/or show proof of recovery from COVID-19. Passengers 11 years old and younger are not required to be fully vaccinated. If they aren't fully vaccinated or don't have a booster, they must provide proof of a negative PCR or antigen test result from a test taken no more than three days prior to embarkation. For sailings in 2024, vaccination and testing requirements will be waived for all passengers.

UnCruise Adventures

All UnCruise passengers are exempt from vaccine and testing requirements. The line will continue to monitor the effects of new variants, as well as CDC recommendations and will adjust its policies accordingly.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Testing requirements are determined by the countries the ships visit, but the line itself has no vaccine or testing mandates of its own. You can check the protocols for the places on your itinerary for the most up-to-date information by visiting the protocols page on Uniworld's website .

All Viking passengers, whether on a river sailing or an ocean voyage, must be fully vaccinated for sailings departing on or before Oct. 31, 2023. It will not be required for cruisers embarking on or after Nov. 1, 2023. Testing is no longer required unless passengers are exhibiting symptoms and seek medical assistance.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages will not check proof of immunization or a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar no longer mandates shots for passengers of any age. Testing is not required by the line but might be necessary based on local regulations, which with passengers must comply.

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Celestyal drops proof of vaccination & recovery requirements

Post date: Oct 12 2022

Date: Oct 12 2022

By: Travelweek

ATHENS — Celestyal Cruises has announced the immediate removal of its proof of COVID-19 vaccination or recovery policy.

Effective immediately, Celestyal guests are no longer required to provide proof of valid vaccination or recovery certificates to board their ships. However, guests are still required to test for COVID-19 ahead of their cruise for the remainder of the 2022 season. Pre-embarkation testing is accepted either with a rapid antigen test taken up to 48 hours before boarding, or with a PCR test taken up to 72 hours before boarding.

As previously announced , guests on all Celestyal sailings commencing on or after March 2, 2023 will no longer require a pre-embarkation COVID-19 test or proof of valid vaccination or recovery certificates unless required by local regulations.

All Celestyal crew members will continue to be fully vaccinated and the company encourages guests aged 12 and over to also be fully vaccinated.

“The health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve is our top priority and we continue to monitor and adjust to the evolving global situation,” said Celestyal’s chief commercial officer, Leslie Peden. “Our crew will continue to maintain our stringent hygiene protocols based upon  the most up-to-date guidelines from the European Healthy Gateways, CLIA and Greek health authorities. We look forward to welcoming all guests for the immersive experience that we are known for and to exploring the unique destinations of the Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean.”

For Celestyal’s health and safety measures click here .

Tags: Celestyal Cruises, Lead Story

These Cruise Lines Are Ending Vaccine Requirements

By Rachel Chang

While much of the travel industry has returned to a pre-pandemic state, cruising has been slower to rebound from some of the tightest restrictions over the last two and a half years. But now cruise lines are starting to drop those vaccine and testing requirements, making it easier for cruise-goers to sail the seas.

“The cruise industries have seen a slower return to normal since the pandemic, but are definitely making a comeback,” says Dr. Jan Jones of the University of New Haven’s hospitality and tourism department. “Cruisers have been patiently waiting and there is pent-up demand. The slow return was impacted by low consumer confidence, continued health and safety concerns, and issues with air travel to and from ports.”

After all, the entire industry was paused in the early days of the pandemic. But this past July, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dropped its COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships , letting individual cruise lines set their own standards. Since then, cruise lines around the world have been cautiously dropping their pre-embarkation requirements. “I believe that eventually all cruise lines will drop as many restrictions as they can,” Jones adds. “They are dependent, however, on the requirements of the places they are stopping at.”

This means that two different itineraries on the same cruise line may not have the same rules—so it’s more essential than ever to check testing, vaccination, and booster requirements specifically for each departure. “Even if your particular cruise line does not have a pre-travel testing requirement, test one to three days before your trip anyway to minimize the risk to others. Retesting three to five days after returning, and in particular, if symptoms have developed, is also advised,” says Dr. Jasmin Valentin of Sameday Health . “Once booked and on board, passengers should take the appropriate precautions, but they should also remember to have fun—it is a vacation!”

Here are some of the latest cruise lines that are pulling back on pandemic measures.

Carnival Cruises

Since September 6, passengers on itineraries that are 16 nights or less, and who show proof of vaccination, no longer have to test before boarding . Guests on cruises longer than 16 nights will have to test if stopping in destinations that require tests locally (like Canada, Bermuda, Greece and Australia; these destinations require the tests to be supervised). Cruises that are 16 nights or longer may have additional requirements based on the itinerary. To board Carnival ships, unvaccinated guests need to show a negative PCR or an antigen test within three days of boarding (self-tests are now accepted by Carnival for boarding purposes). 

“These guidelines will make it a simpler process, and make cruising accessible for those who were not able to meet the protocols that we were required to follow for much of the past 14 months,” Carnival’s president Christine Duffy said in a statement last month .

Celebrity Cruises

Earlier this month, the Miami-based cruise line dropped vaccination requirements for passengers—unless their cruise itinerary stops at ports in destinations that require the inoculation (Canada, Australia, and New Zealand for those 12 and older; Galapagos for those three and older).

Its pre-boarding tests requirements have also been scaled back. All departures from the U.S. that are nine nights or less don’t require any testing, unless they stop in Canada or Bermuda. For those departing Europe or for longer U.S. itineraries, self-administered tests will be accepted (with the exception of those that stop in Australia, Bermuda, Canada, Greece or New Zealand). Children under 5 leaving the U.S. or under 12 leaving Europe also don’t need to test. Celebrity’s Healthy at Sea page makes it easy to track the specific requirements based on your cruise’s itinerary.  “Travel is making its grand comeback, and we’re looking forward to the continued momentum from consumers around the world,” Celebrity President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo said last month .

The Greece-based company announced this week it will remove all COVID protocols for sailings starting on or after March 2, 2023, with the exception being if the local regulations of a destination deem otherwise. Even so, Celestyal suggests all guests test prior to travel, regardless of vaccination status, but test results will no longer be checked next year. 

For departures through 2022, proof of vaccination or certificate of recent recovery is no longer required , though testing protocols will still be in place. Guests over the age of six will need to show a negative rapid antigen test within 48 hours, or a negative PCR test within 72 hours. Celestyal also recommends all passengers over 60—and guests of any age with an underlying condition—to check with their doctors first to ensure they’re fit to travel. The company also recently relaxed its mask-wearing policies, making them optional, even in indoor and crowded settings.

“The health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve is our top priority and we continue to monitor and adjust to the evolving global situation,” Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer Leslie Peden said in a statement. “Our crew will continue to maintain our stringent hygiene protocols based upon the most up-to-date guidelines from the European Healthy Gateways, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and Greek health authorities.”

Costa Cruises

Starting with departures from October 8, 2022, guests who are vaccinated will no longer have to take a pre-boarding antigen test 48 hours before departure, if the itinerary starts in South America, the Caribbean, the United Arab Emirates, and the Mediterranean (with the exception of Greece).

Midway COVID tests and daily temperature checks have also been eliminated—however, there are exceptions for itineraries that include Spain , Barbados, St. Maarten, St. Vincent, and Morocco. Masks and social distancing are now also optional, but surgical masks are still required for the first seven days of trans-oceanic and World Tour itineraries. 

Disney Cruise Line

The family-focused cruise line has been rolling out new regulations this month. While guests over the age of five previously had to be vaccinated, starting in early September, unvaccinated passengers under the age of 12 are now allowed to board.

Additionally, starting this week, vaccinated passengers no longer need to test before embarking. The exception are trips on the Disney Magic that depart New York City from September 30 through October 31 that may have different requirements. Unvaccinated passengers will need to test via a rapid or lab-based PCR or nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT). (Rapid antigen tests are not accepted.) Results need to be uploaded before boarding.

Holland America

With eased restrictions that went into effect September 6 for most trips up to 15 nights, vaccinated passengers over the age of five no longer have to test, and unvaccinated guests can use a self-administered test within three days of departure—except in areas where local restrictions deem otherwise (like Canada, Greece, and Australia) and on certain itineraries (like Panama Canal crossings, trans-ocean trips, and certain remote locales). Trips that are 16 days or longer will still require a “medically supervised” COVID test with written results within three days of travel. “Our guests have been excited to return to cruising, and these changes will make it easier for more guests to explore the world in a safe and enjoyable environment,” the company’s president Gus Antorcha said in a statement last month .

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Also enacted earlier this month on September 3, the Miami-based company will now allow guests over the age of 12 who are not vaccinated to board if they have a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of embarkation. There are no restrictions for those under the age of 11. Rules may be different depending on requirements of locales visited. Masks are optional in all areas.

Earlier this month, Oceania dropped testing requirements for vaccinated passengers; unvaccinated guests need to show proof of a negative antigen or PCR test taken within 72 hours. Guests under the age of 12 don’t have any vaccination or testing requirements. "We have been waiting a long time for this moment to arrive,” Oceania’s president and CEO Howard Sherman said in a statement. “The world has been reopening quickly and once more, we are pleased to welcome all travelers, of all ages, to safely explore the world with comfort and ease aboard the small, luxurious ships of Oceania Cruises.”

Royal Caribbean

As with so many cruises around the world, requirements will vary by itinerary , but new policies that went into effect earlier this month eliminated vaccination requirements for trips departing the U.S., as long as they don’t stop in Bermuda or Canada.

No documentation is required to board, but disclosure is required in advance, and those who are not vaccinated do still need to show a negative result on an antigen or PCR test within three days of departure. Self-tests are accepted in some cases, but it's best to check the specifics on the site .

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Celestyal Cruises eases Covid policy, ditches mask mandate

Celestyal Cruises announced it has amended its health protocol, relaxing its Covid-19 policy.

For all sailings all guests 12 years of age and above must continue to be fully vaccinated including proof of a booster for those of aged 18 and above (if their original vaccine course was completed more than 270 days prior to embarkation).

All guests are required to have a certified negative Covid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours prior to embarkation or a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours earlier, as opposed to the previous requirement of the test being taken 24 hours prior.

For citizens of EU member-states and countries participating in the EU Digital Covid Certificate scheme that have recently recovered from Covid, an EU DCC is required.

Citizens from countries not participating in the DCC scheme (US, Canada, Mexico and others) who have recently recovered from Covid, can provide a doctor’s note supplemented with the positive test result corresponding to the date which the guest was diagnosed positive and the negative test result corresponding to the date of recovery.

Masks, which were previously mandated in all indoor areas, are no longer required, but instead highly recommended for indoor areas and outdoors when in large crowds.

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Celestyal cruises eases covid requirements, but retains testing.

Celestyal Cruises has removed its requirement for guests to present proof of vaccination against Covid-19, or of having recently recovered from the virus, but will retain a pre-travel testing requirement for the remainder its 2022 season.

Relaxation of Celestyal’s proof of valid vaccination and/or recovery certificate rules follows a missive from the Greek National Committee of Public Health. Celestyal, though, said it would still require guests to test ahead of their cruise until early March 2023 "for peace of mind".

Guests can prove their Covid status via a negative antigen test for Covid-19 taken up to 48 hours prior to embarkation, or a negative PCR test for Covid-19 taken up to 72 hours prior to embarkation.

Celestyal will drop all of its pre-embarkation Covid requirements – testing, proof of vaccination and proof of recovery – for all sailings departing on or after 2 March 2023, unless required by local regulations.

All Celestyal crew will continue to be required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, and the line will continue to encourage all guests aged 12 and above to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

"The health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve is our top priority and we continue to monitor and adjust to the evolving global situation,” said Celestyal chief commercial officer Leslie Peden.

"Our crew will continue to maintain our stringent hygiene protocols based on the most up-to-date guidelines from the European Healthy Gateways, Clia and Greek health authorities."

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Has anyone from the US taken this cruise and if so did you have to get any special vaccines or apply for visas?

3 replies to this topic

Of course you do.

You can't just visit any country in the world and ignore their requirements of entry.

Read through every country on your itinerary for what is needed to visit. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html

If you can check with them or just get one online

https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/eVisa/Home

Each country will set it's own rules for entry and these can and do change from time to time. The best way to check is not really asking people on the internet what they did because that might now be out of date information.

I suggest liking at an authoritative source such as the government website of each country you will be visiting. One would hope the official site would reflect any recent changes.

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A Royal Caribbean-owned cruise line just announced a vaccine requirement. These are all the cruise lines that will require COVID-19 vaccinations for guests and crew.

• The return of cruising still remains in limbo for many cruise lines.
• Companies including Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have announced vaccine requirements.
• These are all the cruise lines that have COVID-19 vaccine requirements for guests or crew.

Several cruise lines have started announcing vaccination requirements for guests and crew members as the industry looks to restart after the the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, cruise ships that were mid-trip began facing COVID-19 related turmoils as the virus began trickling around the world, leaving passengers stuck, infected, or dead. Shortly after, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a no-sail order, which was later replaced by its "Framework for Conditional Sailing Order," a compilation of protocols needed for cruising to resume again by November 1.

This sailing order was again updated on April 2. These new guidelines didn't reflect the cruise industry's hope of a sailing return by July , but did recommend cruise lines to establish a timeline for crew and port workers to get the vaccine.

Despite this updated framework — and pent-up demand for  highly anticipated cruise ships and trips — the official return of cruising still remains in limbo. Presently, no major US cruises will be welcoming passengers until May, but companies are constantly extending this pause on sailing .

But as the COVID-19 vaccine continues to be distributed across the globe, this could soon change.

"If we start to see vaccines become more widely available, and if the vaccines are being administered in a far more efficient manner than they have been, I think it would be reasonable for the cruise lines to say a vaccine is required," Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst and president of the Atmosphere Research Group, told Insider in an interview.

However, vaccine rollout and accessibility has been a notorious struggle around the world. As a result, Harteveldt notes that it may be "counterproductive" for major cruise lines like Carnival and Norwegian to require its guests to receive the vaccine if sailings actually resume in the next few months instead of later in the year, say July.

But over the last month, cruise lines have become increasingly vocal about the vaccine. While some companies — such as Carnival and its Holland America line — are "reviewing" the different vaccines , several others have already announced vaccination protocols for guests and crew members.

These are all the cruise lines with vaccine-related mandates so far:

Saga Cruises

On January 21, United Kingdom-based Saga Cruises announced that it would require all of its passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks before a trip. Saga primarily caters to passengers over 50-years-old.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean expects to require its crew members to receive the vaccine before sailings return, a spokesperson told Insider.

On March 1, the cruise line also announced its first "fully vaccinated" cruise aboard the Odyssey of the Seas, which will be sailing in May from Israel. Both crew members and guests over 16 years old will have to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to sail on the upcoming cruise.

"Royal Caribbean's decision to come to Israel is a significant expression of  confidence in our policy ," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in the press release announcing the cruise . "Just as we made Israel the world champion in vaccines, we will make it the world champion in economics and tourism in the post-coronavirus era."

On March 19 , Royal Caribbean announced a similar series of seven-night sailings from July to August aboard its Adventure of the Seas ship. These summertime cruises will bring guests from Nassau, Bahamas to islands like the Grand Bahama, Cozumel, Mexico, and Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Like the Israel-based Odyssey of the Seas sailings, every adult passenger interested in this upcoming Adventure of the Seas collection will have to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Guests under 18-years-old will instead have to test negative for the virus.

"The vaccines are clearly a game-changer for all of us, and with the number of vaccinations and their impact growing rapidly, we believe starting with cruises for vaccinated adult guests and crew is the right choice," Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, said in a press release . "As we move forward, we expect this requirement and other measures will inevitably evolve over time."

On March 23 , Royal Caribbean announced another set of seven-night summer cruises, this time from Bermuda aboard the Vision of the Seas ship. Like its previous announcements, these new cruises — which will sail from June 26 through August — will require crew members and adult guests to be vaccinated against COVID-19 "at this time." Passengers under 18 years old will instead have to test negative for the virus. 

Guests aboard this recently announced "fully vaccinated" summer cruise will get a full day at Perfect Day at CocoCay and an overnight stay in Bermuda.

One day later, the mega cruise line announced another set of fully vaccinated seven-night cruises, this time from Limassol, Cyprus. These cruises, which will sail from July 10 through October, will bring guests around Cyprus and Greece, including tourist hotspots like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. The same crew, adults, and guests under 18 years old health protocols from the prior two Royal Caribbean announcements apply to this sailing as well. 

Crystal Cruises

On February 18, Crystal Cruises said it would require guests to receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days before a cruise. The cruise line is also requiring a negative coronavirus test result from travelers and crew members, among other health protocols.

"We know that peace of mind is the greatest luxury, and the vaccine requirement is simply the best way to ensure the safest possible Crystal Experience for all on board," Jack Anderson, the cruise line's interim president and CEO, said in a press release .

Hornblower Group's "overnight" cruise lines

Hornblower Group's American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines have both announced requirements for guests and crew members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine for sailings starting July 1.

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According to John Waggoner, CEO and founder of American Queen Steamboat Company, requiring the vaccine will ensure the " safest cruising experience possible ." However, the cruise lines is are still looking to resume sailing in April, prior to this vaccination deadline. 

Norwegian Cruise Line and its Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands

Norwegian Cruise Line and its Regent Seven Seas Cruises have announced COVID-19 vaccine requirements for crew members prior to boarding. However, the cruise lines are still "exploring all options" in regards to vaccination requirements for its guests, according to the cruise lines' statements previously sent to Insider.

Now, it seems like Norwegian has made up its mind regarding guest vaccination mandates. On April 5, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced that its three cruise brands — Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — will be requiring both guests and crew members to be fully vaccinated.

"Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings shares the CDC's view that vaccinations are the primary vehicle for Americans to get back to their everyday lives," Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said in a press release. "We believe that through a combination of 100% mandatory vaccinations for guests and crew and science-backed public health measures ... we can create a safe, 'bubble-like' environment for guests and crew."

Now, Norwegian is hoping the CDC will allow it to bypass the Conditional Sailing Order, therefore bringing the cruise line's sailings from US ports back by July 4. 

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson's adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages, has announced it will be making the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory for both guests and crew in order to "provide the safest travel experience," Tom McAlpin, Virgin Voyages' CEO, said in an email statement sent to Insider.

"The is a step towards the safe return to sailing and is the right decision for Virgin Voyages," McAlpin said in the statement. "We're really encouraged by the latest rollout plans in the May time frame from the new administration, and we know the future is about vaccinations. Our business makes us uniquely set up to do this with testing and vaccine travel requirements."

P&O Cruises

On March 17, P&O Cruises — owned by Carnival Corp — announced a summertime Ultimate Escape cruise collection that will sail along the UK coast. However, the cruises will only be available to UK residents who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least seven days before the trip.

The decision to make COVID-19 vaccinations mandatory for guests was based on the "advanced progress of the UK vaccination program and strong expressed preference on the part of our guests," P&O said in a press release.

Celebrity Cruises

On March 19, Royal Caribbean's Celebrity Cruises announced seven-night Caribbean sailings departing from June 5 to August aboard the Celebrity Millennium ship. 

Like its parent company's sailings , all crew members and adult guests interested in Celebrity's summer Caribbean cruises will have to be vaccinated against COVID-19. People under 18 years old will instead have to receive a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of the trip.

Windstar Cruises

On March 30, US-based Windstar Cruises announced a COVID-19 vaccine requirement for its guests and crew. 

Guests interested in sailing with the small cruise line — which oversees six ships — must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing. Proof of the vaccination and a negative COVID-19 PCR test will then have to be presented in order to board the ship.

Windstar's crew will also have to be vaccinated "as soon as the vaccine is available to them," according to the cruise line .

Cunard will resume sailing with cruises around the UK aboard the Queen Elizabeth ship from July to October. However, don't consider booking a trip unless you're a UK resident that's been vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Guests interested in Cunard's summer cruises must be fully vaccinated at least seven days before sailing, and will be required to show proof. 

Seabourn 

On April 6, Seabourn — owned by Carnival Corporation — announced its new seven to 14-day Mediterranean sailings to and from Athens, Greece starting July 3. From there, passengers will get to see tourist hotspots like Mykonos and Agios Nikolaos, Greece and Limassol, Cyprus.

About two weeks later, it unveiled seven-day cruises beginning July from Barbados to the Caribbean, including destinations like Grenada and St. Maarten.

Like other cruise lines, Seabourn is requiring all guests and crew interested in this upcoming summer cruise series to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before cruising. 

Viking 

The same day Seabourn announced its new fully vaccinated sailings, Viking also unveiled three new eight-day summer cruises, all with a vaccine mandate. These new itineraries will each sail around three different locations starting June: Bermuda, the UK, and Iceland.

Despite the guest vaccine requirement, guests and crew will still have to take a PCR test as well.

"We believe there will be no safer way to travel the world than on a Viking voyage," Torstein Hagen, Viking's chairman, said in the press release ."

On April 8, Royal Caribbean-owned Silversea announced it would require guests and crew — with the exception of those sailing aboard its cruises from Australia — to be fully vaccinated. That same day, Silversea also unveiled its plans to resume sailing on June 18 with 10-day Mediterranean cruises from Greece aboard the Silver Moon ship.

"Vaccinations will play a critical role in ensuring the health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit, which we prioritize above all else," Roberto Martinoli, president and CEO of Silversea Cruises, said in a press release .

Are you a cruise industry employee or have a cruise industry story to share? Contact this reporter at [email protected].

Watch: The coronavirus could affect the accuracy of the 2020 census — and that could decide who gets a vaccine

• Main content

Crystal latest cruise company to announce COVID-19 vaccine requirement for passengers

Crystal will require all passengers on its ocean and river cruises to be fully inoculated with a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to embarkation.

Passengers will be required to provide proof of vaccination before embarking and must have received both doses of the vaccine (if recommended by the manufacturer) by that timeline, reports Cruise Critic .

Crystal  made the announcement Thursday as part of its Crystal Clean+ 4.0 health and safety initiatives, which also mandate negative COVID-19 tests for all passengers and crew; temperature checks at the terminal prior to embarkation; a "nimble" masking policy; physical distancing measures; enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures; and reduced passenger capacity across the fleet.

COVID vaccine requirement: Royal Caribbean Group, Norwegian probably will require crew to get vaccines

'I am ecstatic': COVID-19 vaccine inspires confidence among cruise passengers, industry

In outlining the company's decision to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for all passengers, the company  cited a survey by Cruise Critic earlier this month showing that a majority of respondents – 81% – said they would cruise if proof of vaccination were required.

Only 5% of 3,000 respondents said they would not cruise if a COVID-19 vaccine were to be mandated.

"We are encouraged by the progress being made with the COVID-19 vaccines and what this means for our Crystal Family and the travel industry as a whole as we eagerly look forward to exploring the world again," said Crystal's interim president and CEO, Jack Anderson. "We know that peace of mind is the greatest luxury; and the vaccine requirement is simply the best way to ensure the safest possible Crystal Experience for all on board. This sentiment is underscored by conversations with our guests and travel partners and a recent Cruise Critic survey of cruisers that revealed that more than 80% of respondents would cruise if a vaccine were required."

Crystal joins a number of other lines , including U.K.-based Saga Cruises and American Queen Steamboat Co., in mandating proof of COVID-19 vaccination for all passengers.

Crystal says it is aware the availability of COVID-19 vaccines varies according to country and state or provincial level.

In a press release, Crystal noted it has voluntarily paused all operations through May 2021 for its river fleet; into June for its ocean ships; and through Aug. 1 for Crystal Esprit and all of August for Crystal Endeavor.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required across all ships and all brands in the Crystal fleet.

Crystal will also be mandating vaccinations for crew members but acknowledges this may not be possible due to their age and country of residence. Younger citizens are often at the back of the line in most countries' rollout plans. Until then, Crystal plans a strict testing regimen for all crew members.

"Crew members will be tested for COVID-19 prior to leaving their home location to join the ship and must receive a negative result. They also will take a COVID-19 test at embarkation; quarantine for seven days upon arrival; be tested again at the end of that seven-day period and must receive a negative result before beginning their duties," Anderson said. "When vaccines are widely available, they will be a requirement of employment for crew which must be completed at least 14 days prior to service."

In addition to providing verified proof of COVID-19 vaccination at embarkation, passengers will also be required to complete an online form acknowledging the need for proof of vaccination. Cruise tickets will not be issued until travelers agree to those conditions.

More from Cruise Critic :

• Which cruise lines require a COVID-19 vaccine?
• Cruise rules and regulations, plus travel documents and information
• When are cruise lines around the world expected to resume Service?

Your sailing is fast approaching, and we're looking forward to welcoming you onboard. Please take a moment to provide us with your current COVID-19 vaccination status by filling out the below form.

For more information on protocols specific to your sailing, visit Healthy at Sea .

NOTE: All Celebrity Cruises guests age 12 and older must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with the final dose of their vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing. Please visit our FAQs for full details on vaccination requirements.

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Boarding Requirements for COVID-19 or Other Pathogens

Are there any innoculation or vaccination needs for my sailing?

As detailed in our brochure, all guests must ensure that they are medically and physically fit for travel. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) provide guidelines as to which vaccinations are required in each country. In many cases inoculations are recommended but in some circumstances they are required. We recommend that you check with your health care professional or a Travel Medicine Specialist certified by the WHO for guidance. For certain destinations, additional vaccination for COVID-19 or other pathogens may be required.

Other informational resources can be accessed at the Centers for Disease Control  and Prevention's Traveler's Health website or toll free at 1-877-FYI-TRIP, and the World Health Organization website.

Am I required to take a COVID-19 test or be vaccinated prior to embarking on my cruise?

All travelers are welcome to sail regardless of vaccination status and will no longer be required to provide proof of pre-departure testing to board, except for specific sailings where vaccination or testing are required by law.

As destinations around the globe continue to adapt their health and safety protocols, we continually evaluate and update our own requirements as new information becomes available.  If you’re currently booked on a cruise vacation with us and have provided an email address, you will be advised of the latest requirements leading up to departure. Be sure to register your guest account so that we may reach you.

As of August 28, 2023, there are no pre-cruise testing or vaccination requirements needed for the following sailings:

Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Chile, or Back-to-Back sailings visiting Australia, Fiji, Tonga, or Chile

Are there any vaccination, testing, or documentation protocol requirements to board a sailing visiting Australia?

The travel documentation below is still required for the following Australia and New Zealand sailings:

October 1, 2023 Celebrity Solstice from Honolulu to Sydney*

October 19, 2023 Celebrity Solstice from Sydney to Singapore

November 25, 2023 Celebrity Edge from Singapore to Sydney

December 9, 2023 Celebrity Edge roundtrip from Sydney*

December 21, 2023 Celebrity Edge roundtrip from Sydney*

Documentation

For itineraries that have a port of call in Australia and New Zealand, there are 3 documents guests must complete as soon as possible prior to sailing:

To comply with government protocols when sailing to Australia, all guests must self-disclose their vaccination status, as well as read and acknowledge the Health, Travel, and Financial Risks statement. Please ensure you have completed the form Access Here for each member of your traveling party or you may not be permitted to sail.

All guests (except for Australian citizens) must also complete the Australian Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) form Access Here .

*The government of New Zealand requires all guests (excluding Australia and New Zealand citizens) with a port call, embark or debark in New Zealand to submit a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) form prior to boarding the sailing Access Here .

October 1, 2023 Celebrity Solstice guests, please also be advised, guests must check their Visa and ESTA requirements before traveling.

What health screening measures are being taken at the terminal on boarding day?

During check-in, you will be asked to complete a health attestation. If you attest to or show signs of a fever, cough, or fatigue, you will be directed to a secondary screening.

If I am required to be vaccinated for my sailing, what proof of vaccination is accepted?

Guests can furnish proof from the government site, app or photo as proof of vaccination. Laminated Vaccination cards are accepted.

What if I cannot get vaccinated due to a pre-existing allergy? What if I am not vaccinated for religious reasons? What if I have recently recovered from COVID-19 and am not now eligible to be vaccinated?

Vaccination Accommodations Requests

Before requesting a vaccination accommodation, there are several things to keep in mind. As you prepare to submit a request for vaccination accommodation, please:

Submit your request at least 30 days prior to your cruise departure date or even earlier if possible.

Be aware that we may not be able to process requests submitted less than 14 days to sailing.

Be aware that approvals or denials for vaccine accommodation may be issued up to 2 weeks prior to sailing or later.

Wait for a response to your request before booking travel arrangements such as flights and hotel accommodations. Celebrity Cruises will not be responsible for any travel-related expenses incurred by you or members of your traveling party should your request be denied.

How to submit a vaccination accommodation request:

If you believe that you meet the requirements for a vaccination accommodation, please send an email to [email protected]. You can also have your local travel agent or International Representative contact us.

Your initial email to [email protected] should include the following details:

The full name of the person who needs the accommodation, as the name appears on their reservation.

Date of Sailing

Reservation Number

Best phone number to reach the requesting guest (or their legal guardian if they are a minor)

Best email to reach the requesting guest or their guardian, should it be different than the one you are emailing from.

Religious Requests : For religious accommodation, please describe the nature of your sincerely held religious beliefs, religious practice or observance that conflicts with the vaccination requirement.

Medical Requests : For your request to be considered by our medical team, a letter from a physician is required. Please see the specific requirements for the letter below:

The letter must come from a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).

The letter must include the full name and date of birth for the guest requesting the accommodation.

The letter must clearly indicate the pre-existing, non-COVID medical condition or disability that is contraindicated for vaccination.

The letter should include a note that the guest is medically fit to travel.

The letter must be signed by the MD or DO.

Vaccine accommodation requests should be submitted individually and will be considered individually. It may be possible for some members of the same travel party to receive an approval, while others are denied.

Our receipt of your vaccination accommodation request in no way implies or guarantees an approval.

If your vaccination accommodation request is granted

Approvals apply only to the sailing for which they were granted and need to be renewed for each new sailing as protocols and operational needs change frequently. Approvals do not imply or guarantee an approval for any future sailings.

Please note that vaccination accommodated guests must adhere to all health protocols and travel requirements for unvaccinated guests as required by the cruise line and at the local, state and national level.

If your vaccination accommodation request is denied

If we are unable to approve your request, you can:

Change the ship/sail date and submit a new request, if your denial was based on operational capacity.

Cancel only the unvaccinated guest(s) from the booking, if the remainder of the traveling party still wishes to sail. The unvaccinated guest will receive a full refund after cancellation.

Cancel the booking that includes the unvaccinated guest and receive a full refund for the booking. Only those guests in the impacted booking are eligible to receive a full refund. Related bookings (family, friends, etc. traveling on another booking) remain subject to the standard cancellation penalty schedule.

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Crystal Cruises Will Require All Guests to Be Fully Vaccinated Before Boarding

"We know that peace of mind is the greatest luxury; and the vaccine requirement is simply the best way to ensure the safest possible Crystal Experience for all on board."

Crystal Cruises will require all guests to be fully vaccinated before boarding a future cruise, the company announced on Thursday, becoming the latest cruise line to mandate the jab.

"We are encouraged by the progress being made with the COVID-19 vaccines and what this means for our Crystal Family and the travel industry as a whole as we eagerly look forward to exploring the world again," Crystal's interim president and CEO, Jack Anderson, said in a statement . "We know that peace of mind is the greatest luxury; and the vaccine requirement is simply the best way to ensure the safest possible Crystal Experience for all on board."

All passengers will be required to wait at least 14 days after their final COVID-19 vaccination shot and provide proof of that vaccination before embarking on a ship.

Crystal will also seek to ensure its crew are vaccinated but noted that endeavor may be harder as they come from dozens of countries around the world with different vaccine policies and availability.

In addition to the vaccine, both guests and crew will have to test negative for COVID-19, undergo temperature checks, and wear masks when appropriate as part of the cruise line's Crystal Clean 4.0 protocols .

Anderson said all crew would also have to provide a negative COVID-19 test before leaving their home countries to join the ship, quarantine for seven days upon arrival, and get a second negative test "before beginning their duties."

"When vaccines are widely available, they will be a requirement of employment for crew which must be completed at least 14 days prior to service," he added.

The cruise line has paused operations through at least May on its river cruises and into June on its ocean sailings. The company's expedition and yacht ships are on pause into August.

Crystal is the latest company to require guests to be fully vaccinated before sailing, joining Saga Cruises , which caters to passengers 50 and older, American Queen Steamboat Company, and Victory Cruise Lines .

Several other lines, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line, and Regent Seven Seas , will aim to vaccinate all crew going forward.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .