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What Are the COVID-19 Testing Requirements for Disney Cruise Line?

By Kelly Oliveros 8 Comments

UPDATE: Disney is now requiring all guests ages 5 and older to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for all sailings starting January 13th, 2022 .   Click here for more information .

Disney Cruise Line began returning to business as usual with some staycation cruises in the UK and a test cruise sailing from Florida .

Time to Set Sail!

Disney Cruise Line then announced that they will be sailing once again from the US with paying passengers starting in early August 2021! With sailings resuming, things will be a little bit different and there will be additional requirements as part of Disney’s focus on health and safety. Some of those requirements relate to COVID-19 tests , and today we’re breaking down what you need to know.

If you’re planning to go on a Disney Cruise after sailings resume, there are some important rules you need to know. Some of these rules relate to COVID-19 testing. Specifically, all Disney Cruise Line passengers for upcoming ships will have to meet some COVID-19 testing requirements before leaving home and on embarkation day . Disney has also added some testing requirements on debarkation day for select cruises. Let’s break them down here.

Before Leaving Home

Before you even step into the cruise line terminal, you’ll need to meet some COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements in order to sail. First, all vaccine-eligible Guests are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (based on U.S. eligibility requirements, as defined by the CDC at the time of sailing). Guests who are not vaccine-eligible because of age must provide a proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken between 3 days and 24 hours before their sail date.

When it comes to testing, Disney notes that every guest in your travel party will have to create an account with Inspire Diagnostics.  They recommend that you do so 15 days prior to departure.

Disney Dream

This is a third-party partner Disney Cruise Line is using for its COVID-19 testing and vaccination verification. As early as 33 days before your cruise, every guest has to log into Inspire Diagnostics’ Safe Passage site and create an account linked to their reservation. Parents and guardians will have to make accounts on behalf of any minors in their travel party.

UPDATE: Disney has since updated its website to note that “parents and legal guardians may use their own accounts to submit test results on behalf of their children.”

Disney Cruise Line

Next, the requirements vary depending on whether a guest is fully vaccinated or not. Guests who are fully vaccinated must upload proof of vaccination to their Safe Passage account through Inspire Diagnostics. Guests who are not vaccine-eligible because of age must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test — this must be a NAAT test, rapid PCR test or lab-based PCR test. So, you’ll either upload your proof of vaccination or COVID-19 test results for guests who are not vaccine eligible because to age.

If a guest is not fully vaccinated because of age, then that guest will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test. That test must have been taken between 3 days and 24 hours before the sail date. The guest can get testing from any independent testing provider or even purchase a PCR testing kit from Inspire Diagnostics for $98.33 per test. The information from these tests must then be properly sent or uploaded to the Inspire Diagnostics system an appropriate time before the sail date.

Disney notes that guests with a positive COVID-19 test result, along with everyone in their travel party, will be denied boarding. Guests may also be denied boarding if Inspire Diagnostics doesn’t receive the required documentation or test results needed to sail.

Again, Disney notes that guests should bring proof of their COVID-19 test results as well as vaccination status, along with your Port Arrival form with QR codes on Embarkation Day.

Embarkation Day

Alright, so you’ve submitted your proof of vaccination, as well as proof of negative COVID-19 test for guests who are not vaccine eligible BEFORE you even leave your home. What’s next? Well, then there are specific COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements on embarkation day.

First, we do want to note something very important — the Disney Cruise Line website notes that requirements can change. So, guests are directed to check back 24 hours prior to their sail date for the latest information.

Always Be on the Lookout for Updates

In terms of the embarkation day requirements, Disney notes that ALL guests, regardless of age or vaccination status, will be required to undergo a rapid PCR COVID-19 test administered by Inspire Diagnostics at the terminal before they can board. This test will be paid for by Disney Cruise Line and administered by Inspire Diagnostics. Guests who have a positive COVID-19 test at this point (as well as everyone in their travel party) will be denied boarding.

It’s Important to Know All the Requirements

If your travel party is on consecutive, back-to-back sailings, every member of your party (regardless of age or vaccination status) will be required to undergo a COVID-19 test at the terminal after debarking the ship following your first cruise, and before re-boarding the ship for your second cruise.

Debarkation Day

Recently, Disney Cruise Line updated their website to add an additional COVID-19 testing requirement. According to the website, all unvaccinated guests sailing on 5-night and longer cruises will be required to undergo a COVID-19 antigen test on Debarkation Day, prior to debarking.

This test will be paid for by Disney Cruise Line.

To reiterate, there is a PCR COVID-19 testing requirement before you leave your home for guests who are not vaccine eligible because of age, another rapid test on embarkation day for all guests regardless of age and vaccination status, and a third on debarkation day for select cruises. And note again that at this time, Disney Cruise Line is requiring that all guests who are vaccine eligible because of age are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of sailing.

Note that there are other health and safety requirements you’ll need to look at for the upcoming Disney Cruises including travel insurance requirements, mask rules, and more. We’ll continue to look for more updates regarding Disney Cruise Line and we’ll share those all with you.

Click here to see what’s going on with Disney Cruise Line and their plan to establish a new year-round port.

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Will you be setting sail with Disney Cruise Line soon? Tell us in the comments!

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July 23, 2021 at 9:35 pm

Will proof of antibodies by One Blood for unvaccinated guests be accepted?

July 24, 2021 at 3:57 pm

So let me get this straight. You are required to pay $94 for a slow test. The $65 for a rapid test.

Then what’s the point of the slow test if they will be testing you again before boarding?

And… As thr Texas Democrats who fleeed the state proved, just because your vaccinated doesn’t mean you can’t get it. So then why are vacci ated people exempt from the rapid test on embarcation day? They can still spread it.

July 24, 2021 at 7:53 pm

Patti, you’ll need to reach out to Disney Cruise Line about that.

July 25, 2021 at 2:58 am

In the UK DCL used a company called Prenetics who putting it politely were absolutely useless. Setting up your account and providing proof of vaccination took about 8 hours. Arriving at the port and being tested took 4 hours. This was after the test cruises.

July 25, 2021 at 8:51 am

If everyone got vaccinated when it was free the the government you do not have to worry . I am fully vaccinated so I do not have the stress of doing the 2 test . I know it was going to be a issue if you are going to travel . I am at the age and medical issues so it was an brainer for my family and I . If you get a free vaccine from your state of you have time it would be free . Check with your health dept .

July 25, 2021 at 11:18 am

Being fully vaccinated does not totally prevent someone from contracting some form of COVID. Everyone should be subject to the embarkation rapid test. IMHO

July 25, 2021 at 5:39 pm

First off, the CDC revoked the authorization of the PCR test Wednesday. Why…because the test does not work as advertised. What is Disney going to say about that? Secondly, the state of Florida passed a no vaccine passport law. This is exactly what Disney is asking people for…proof of vaccination. How can they do this. Lastly folks who have been fully vaccinated are STILL catching covid. Disney needs to rethink this abysmal policy. They are truly trying to take the magic out of Disney.

July 27, 2021 at 2:22 am

Disney thankfully can request what they like. If it keeps the anti vaxxers off the ship that’s a good thing imho.

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I spent a full day traveling to Florida for a Disney cruise but got turned away because my sister tested positive for COVID-19. Here's what happened.

• My sister and I were supposed to sail on the new Disney Wish cruise ship in July.
• But when we got to the port, my sister tested positive for COVID-19 and Disney turned us away.
• We then received a cruise credit to rebook and were sent to the airport via a Disney shuttle.

I've been anticipating my first cruise vacation since the start of this year.

In January, I scheduled a three-day trip on Disney's newest ship, the Disney Wish , for one of its earliest voyages in June. I invited my sister to join, and we started counting down the days until our sailing. 

But one month later, Disney announced it was delaying its initial trips because the ship's construction was not complete. Though we were disappointed, we were able to rebook our standard, inside stateroom for a sailing in July with a 50% off discount, bringing our $3,285 vacation down to $1,632.

Last month, the time had finally come for me to travel to Florida. I packed my bags, left New Jersey, and took an hour-long shuttle from the Orlando airport to Port Canaveral. But it was there that my cruise dreams came to a screeching halt — again.

Before I could set foot on the ship, my sister tested positive for COVID-19. She wasn't allowed to board, and to my surprise, neither was I. Here's how our weekend unfolded.

Disney requires all cruise travelers to be vaccinated and submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test before sailing

The testing process is pretty straightforward. Travelers can purchase at-home tests — which they must complete via a proctored telehealth service — or take a test at their local pharmacy. Both versions can be taken no earlier than two days before sailing.

Once tests are finalized, travelers must submit proof of their results to Inspire Diagnostics' Safe Passage website.

I visited a local CVS drive-thru two days before my cruise and got a negative result back the next morning. I was cleared to sail.

My sister, however, took a PCR test at a Walgreens in a different state that same day and didn't receive her results ahead of our trip. As a result, she needed to spend $75 on another test at the port to follow Disney's policy.

Disney Cruise Line has a medical tent at Port Canaveral where travelers can take COVID-19 tests

When we visited, my sister and I counted more than 60 other travelers in the same situation as us. We got in line, checked in with our reservation number, and were sent to the testing section — a semi-private area where plastic partitions separated each nurse's station.

Once her test was completed, we were sent to a larger waiting room with other travelers and were told that her results would be emailed in approximately 20 minutes.

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It only took about 10 minutes to get the results in my sister's case. She turned to me with a nervous expression and quietly said her test came back positive.

It was then that an Inspire Diagnostics employee came to us, brought us to another plastic-covered section, and gave us two options: accept the result and go home, or take a $125 test to make sure she didn't get a false positive.

She also advised that I would not be allowed on the ship if my sister's test was indeed positive, as I'd be considered a close contact — despite traveling separately from different states.

There's a separate trailer across the lot for travelers who test positive

My sister and I had done our best to quarantine ahead of our trip, and we took at-home rapid tests — which came back negative — before traveling, so she opted for the second test.

Once it was completed, we were moved again — this time to a trailer far away from all other travelers. It was there that we were guided to a closed, secluded room with stark white walls, uncomfortable chairs, blasting air conditioning, and an air purifier. We joked that we had been locked in COVID-19 jail.

We waited alone for a few minutes before we were joined by a kind Disney employee who brought us water and shared my sister's positive test result.

She also asked if we'd like a refund or a credit to rebook our cruise, and said we'd get a free ride back to the airport via a Disney shuttle — though we were on our own to figure out travel or a hotel stay from there. In total, we spent about one and a half hours taking the COVID test, waiting for the results, and being sent to the secluded room. 

It was devastating to be turned away from our cruise, but I'm thankful Disney didn't let us board

After months of planning and a full day of travel between New Jersey and Florida, I couldn't help but cry inside the medical tent. After all, I wasn't sick.

But by the time I returned home the following day, I was hit hard with COVID symptoms. I was extremely ill for five days, and am still recovering two weeks later. Had I been on the cruise when I'd planned, I would have spent the trip feeling sick in my room, and I would've infected other passengers and employees.

So as stressful as our experience was, I'm happy Disney was diligent and ensured that only healthy travelers boarded the ship. 

And now, I'm preparing for my cruise all over again. I called Disney Cruise Line a few days after returning home and was able to schedule a new trip for September.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to reuse the 50% discount I received back in February, but my cruise credit meant I didn't have to pay the entire bill all over again. My sister and I also won't have to take additional tests if we submit our vaccine cards and doctors' notes to prove that we recently recovered from COVID.

I'd be lying if I said there isn't a lingering feeling of disappointment every time I see a Disney Cruise Line advertisement. But at least now I know that I'll appreciate my vacation that much more when I finally step on board the Disney Wish.

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Disney Cruise Line will require all passengers ages 5 and older to be fully vaccinated.

The mandate will go into effect on Jan. 13 and will apply to sailings both in the United States and abroad.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

• Nov. 17, 2021

Disney Cruise Line updated its immunization policy for guests on Wednesday, requiring all children over the age of 5 to be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The vaccine mandate will go into effect on Jan. 13 and will apply to sailings both in the United States and abroad. Until then, unvaccinated guests between the ages of 5 and 11 must take a pre-departure coronavirus test. Currently, guests age 12 and up and all crew members on Disney ships must be fully vaccinated.

The new requirement comes after federal regulators recently cleared Pfizer-BioNTech’s pediatric vaccine for children ages 5 through 11 earlier.

Like Disney, most other major cruise lines have required passengers 12 and older to be fully vaccinated. While some companies like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises have allowed unvaccinated children on board ships with testing requirements, some sailings have had to limit numbers on board because of policies that require at least 95 percent of passengers to be fully vaccinated.

Last week, the chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean, Richard Fain, said he expects an update on vaccine protocols for children soon, but no changes have been announced yet.

“I think we’re moving in the direction where every cruise will have 100 percent of the crew vaccinated and 95 or more percent of the guests,” he said at a media event on board Odyssey of the Seas, a cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the most stringent immunization policies, requiring all passengers and crew to be fully vaccinated — including eligible children — and recently announced that the rules would be extended “indefinitely” in the near future. It bars ineligible children from sailings.

To encourage family cruise vacations, Holland American Line recently announced a new offer allowing fully vaccinated children ages 5 to 17 to sail for free as third and fourth guests in the same stateroom.

“Now that kids ages 5 and older can receive the Covid-19 vaccine, getting out and seeing the world is on everyone’s mind,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a London-based reporter. She joined The Times in 2013, and was previously a correspondent in Turkey covering politics, the migrant crisis, the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

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Disney Cruise Line Updates Pre-Trip COVID-19 Test Requirements

As Disney Cruise Line prepares for more voyages on all of its vessels, they’ve updated the Know Before You Go page which shows an adjustment to the requirements for pre-trip COVID-19 tests.

What’s Happening:  

• The Disney Cruise Line has made an adjustment to their pre-trip COVID-19 testing requirements and updated the Know Before You Go  information page to reflect this change.  
• A NAAT test
• Rapid PCR test
• Lab-based PCR test
• As previously stated , Disney Cruise Line will not accept  rapid antigen and antibody tests.

(Screenshot from Disney Cruise Line website)

Good to Know:

• Guests 12 and older must be fully vaccinated in order to sail. Additionally, as of September 13th, all guests, regardless of age and vaccination status, will be required to take a COVID-19 test on embarkation day  before boarding Disney Cruise Line vessels. This requirement will remain in effect until further notice.

• Pre-trip tests for guests 11 and younger must be taken between 3 days and 24 hours before sail date.
• At Home Testing: Guests residing in the United States can purchase a pre-trip, at-home PCR test directly from the Safe Passage website  by Inspire Diagnostics.
• In Person Testing at Inspire Diagnostics:  Schedule a pre-trip test to be performed at one of the Inspire Diagnostics testing locations set up for Disney Cruise Line Guests in Central Florida
• Independent Testing:  Guests may obtain their PCR test from any independent testing provider.

Disney Cruise Line plays catchup, opens up…

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Disney cruise line plays catchup, opens up covid-19 testing restrictions.

Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel

The pool decks, framed by the AquaMouse flume ride, on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The cast of "Disney Seas the Adventure" performs during a preview of the show on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, characters Oaken and Olaf greet guests during dinner on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Young guests swim with southern stingrays along the shore of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. The stingrays do not have stingers and live in a contained natural habitat as a part of the interactive Castaway Cay Stingray Adventure excursion on the island. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests ride the AquaMouse water slide during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Minnie and Mickey welcome guests as the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney characters welcome guests onboard with a show on deck the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish after it was officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A view of Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, in The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, as seen from the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

French grunts —a common tropical fish in The Bahamas and south Florida— school off the shore of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is provisioned at Port Canaveral terminal 10, Tuesday June 28, 2022, ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The cast of "The Little Mermaid" performs during a preview of the show on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A cast member retrieves a raft on the ride as guests prepare to ride the AquaMouse water slide during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At the Worlds of Marvel "Avengers: Quantum Encounter" Dining Experience, guests interact with performers while dining during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fireworks launch over the deck of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish during a "Pirates Rockin' Parlay Party" at sea in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Performers dance as the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Daytime fireworks launch over Disney characters, company executives and guests as the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The stunning wine room of the Enchanté fine dining restaurant during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Scenes from the Senses Spa & Salon on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A statue of Mickey Mouse welcomes snorkelers off the beach of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Anika Noni Rose, who is the voice of Princess Tiana from Disney's 'Princess and the Frog' performs with Mickey & Co. during the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish official christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

An applewood-smoked Old Fashion gets revealed at Hook's Barbery —a barber shop that features a craft bourbon bar— during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Co. CEO Bob Chapek delivers remarks during the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests prepare to ride the AquaMouse water slide during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, characters Anna and Kristoff greet guests during dinner on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A young guest delights in running into Minnie Mouse on the deck of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish shortly before departure at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey, Minnie and dancers perform as the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, characters Anna and cast perform for guests during dinner on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Hero Zone gym on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At sunset, a cast member traverses the AquaMouse tube during downtime for the water ride on the deck of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The new Disney Cruise Line ship 'Disney Wish' arrives before sunrise Monday, June 20, 2022, in Port Canaveral, Fla., after making its first cross-Atlantic voyage. The ship, which was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, is the fifth in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, with a capacity of 4,000 passengers and 1,555 crew. It will make its inaugural sail on July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The cast of 'The Little Mermaid' performs during a preview of the show on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Three Make-A-Wish Foundation ambassadors are introduced as the official "godchildren" of the Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Wish, by Disney Co. CEO Bob Chapek and Josh D'Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, during a christening ceremony, at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Co. parks chairman Josh D'Amaro waves with Minnie Mouse during the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A wishing-star inspired chandelier centerpieces the Grand Hall of the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests gather to watch a SpaceX rocket launch from nearby Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, on deck the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, shortly before departure from Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A French angelfish —a common tropical fish in The Bahamas and south Florida— swims past a sunken boat off the shore of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Minnie, Mickey & cast welcome guests as the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish is officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests gather on the deck of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish during a "Pirates Rockin' Parlay Party" at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Cinderella and Prince Charming welcome guests onboard the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish after it was officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

At the Worlds of Marvel "Avengers: Quantum Encounter" Dining Experience, guests interact with the story while dining during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Gray snapper —a common tropical fish in The Bahamas and south Florida— school in a sunken boat off the shore of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A statue of Cinderella under the wishing-star inspired chandelier that centerpieces the Grand Hall of the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A veranda room on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Actor John Stamos clowns around with Donald Duck during a photo shoot with his 5-year-old son Billy and wife Caitlin in Castaway Cay, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022. Stamos and his family are on the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish that was christened by Disney Co. executives in a ceremony in Port Canaveral, Fla., on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The sun sets at sea in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The entrance to the Worlds of Marvel "Avengers: Quantum Encounter" Dining Experience, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, at sea in the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas, Friday, July 1, 2022. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Marvel Super Hero Academy in the Oceaneer's Club for kids on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Anika Noni Rose, who is the voice of Princess Tiana from Disney's 'Princess and the Frog' performs with Mickey and Minnie during the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish official christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A stage technician delivers an umbrella to Disney Co. CEO Bob Chapek as a brief rain shower interrupts his remarks duing the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests kayak past the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish at Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the ship. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Star Wars: Cargo Bay in the Oceaneer's Club for kids on the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish —docked at Port Canaveral, Tuesday June 28, 2022— during a first-look tour for cast members ahead of its Christening Cruise to the Bahamas, embarking on Wednesday. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Minnie Mouse and actor John Stamos welcome guests onboard the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish after it was officially christened in a ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Gulls fly past the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish at Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the ship. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A Dumbo ride car from Walt Disney World serves as an artificial reef —and makes for a surreal scene— off the beach of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Anika Noni Rose, who is the voice of Princess Tiana from Disney's 'Princess and the Frog' takes the stage to perform with Mickey & Co. during the Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish official christening ceremony at Port Canaveral, Fla., Wednesday June 29, 2022. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests slated for July 14. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A statue of Prince Eric, from Disney's The Little Mermaid, welcomes snorkelers off the beach of Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A 9-foot-tall Rapunzel "paints" the stern of the Disney Cruise Line ship Wish, seen at at Castaway Cay in the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the christening cruise of the ship. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Disney Cruise Line ship Disney Wish docked at Port Canaveral terminal 8, with sister ship Fantasy (far right), Saturday July 2, 2022, following its christening cruise to The Bahamas. The ship is the fifth in the DCL fleet, with its inaugural cruise for Disney guests set for July 14.(Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line announced it would relax COVID-19 testing requirements for most of its ships in late September.

The update to its health safety protocols announced Monday does not change its stance on vaccinations, which were already shifting to allow more unvaccinated children to sail.

But as far as testing goes, vaccinated passengers sailing on the new Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy out of Port Canaveral, Disney Dream out of PortMiami and Disney Wonder on the West Coast, will be able to board without any pre-cruise testing starting Sept. 23. The same goes for Disney Magic, currently in Europe, beginning Nov. 7 when it returns stateside.

As previously announced, DCL still requires passengers 5 and older to be vaccinated, but is shifting that age requirement to 12 and older beginning Sept. 2.

For now, both vaccinated and unvaccinated passengers still have to provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test, paid for by the passenger, taken within 1-3 days for those who’ve had the vaccine, and 1-2 days for those who have not. Unvaccinated passengers also have to be tested at the terminal, free of cost, before boarding, as well as any vaccinated guest that did not get tested beforehand, although the cost for the on-site test for the vaccinated that choose to go that route is on them.

Starting Sept. 23, though, for its four U.S.-based ships, the vaccinated can ignore testing entirely while the unvaccinated guests will no longer have to take a second test at the terminal to board if they test beforehand.

DCL has been slower than other cruise lines to loosen their vaccine and testing requirements . Most major cruise lines have opened up sailings to anyone who has not been vaccinated as of early September while also eliminating the pre-cruise testing requirement for those who have been vaccinated.

Cruise lines began their shifts in policy after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officially shut down its COVID-19 monitoring program in July.

The cruise industry was shut down for nearly a year and a half after the pandemic exploded in March 2020, with several outbreaks centered on cruise ships. The industry worked with the CDC to develop dozens of safety measures in an effort to get cruise lines back up and running, and out from under a no-sail order from the CDC.

The first ships began sailing from the U.S. in summer 2021, taking through spring 2022 before the cruise lines returned most of their fleets to service.

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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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Disney cruise line drops covid-19 testing requirements, guests no longer required to be tested starting on nov. 14.

Brenda Argueta , Digital Journalist

Disney Cruise Line is eliminating its COVID-19 testing requirements for guests starting in mid-November.

In an update made Wednesday, the cruise line said guests, regardless of vaccination status, will no longer have to be tested for COVID-19 starting on Nov. 14.

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New: Disney Cruise Line announced it will no longer require guests to be tested for COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status on all cruises beginning Nov. 14. pic.twitter.com/a5g0FJmYKe — Landon McReynolds (@LandonProducer) November 2, 2022

According to Disney’s website, vaccinations are not required but recommended for guests of all ages.

The COVID-19 testing update applies to sailings from the U.S.

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Brenda argueta.

Brenda Argueta is a digital journalist who joined ClickOrlando.com in March 2021. She is the author of the Central Florida Happenings newsletter that goes out every Thursday.

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Do You Need to Be Vaccinated to Cruise? It Depends on the Ship and Destination

While most cruise lines have scrapped covid vaccine and testing requirements, some companies and international cruise ports still have vaccination and testing rules in place..

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If you’re planning on sailing with Viking anytime soon, you’d better track down that COVID-19 vaccine certificate.

Courtesy of Viking

When cruising restarted in spring 2021, after a nearly 15-month pandemic-spurred shutdown imposed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruisers faced a barrage of rules, including strict requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations and precruise COVID-19 testing. Later, the rules started to go by the wayside, and it was hard to keep track of who was requiring what. Not anymore.

Most cruise lines have now dropped or are soon dropping rules for both vaccinations and precruise testing, with at least one notable exception. Viking —on its river, ocean, and expedition ships—still requires everyone on board be fully vaccinated .

Another line that was still requiring COVID vaccinations, small-ship line Windstar Cruises, will be scrapping its vaccine mandate as of June 1, 2023. “We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the HVAC systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”

Are COVID vaccinations and testing still required for cruises?

Most cruise lines have dropped both their vaccine and testing requirements. Those that have lingered into 2023—mostly lines operating smaller ships—have been quietly scaling back their requirements.

The result: While there was a time after cruising restarted that you could be assured that your fellow passengers, at least those age 12 and up, were both fully vaccinated and tested for COVID-19 before getting on the ship, that is not the case anymore.

That said, specific countries have their own requirements, and several countries still require that cruise ship passengers are vaccinated and/or tested before arrival. If you are doing an itinerary outside of the Caribbean or Europe (where most vaccine and testing requirements have been dropped)—including to select countries in Central and South America or to Australia—you still have to read your cruise line’s precruise health and safety information carefully to make sure you comply with the latest requirements.

Contact your cruise line or check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories for the latest.

What to know before you cruise

Vaccine and pretrip testing requirements can be confusing, especially if you are cruising internationally. Cruise lines have their own rules; countries have their own rules.

Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise line’s health and safety protocols. If a precruise test is required by a certain country, you will find that noted. In this case, you may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. (If testing is required, it can typically be either a PCR test or tele-health-monitored antigen test , paid for by the passenger. The cruise line may also require a test at the pier, paid for by the cruise line.)

If being fully vaccinated is required, that means having received the original series of vaccines at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot or shots.

As was the case even before the pandemic, you will be asked at embarkation to fill out a questionnaire inquiring about your current health status and whether you currently have any symptoms of illness.

You are free to pack and wear masks on your cruise. Most cruise lines suggest you do wear masks in crowded indoor situations—but it’s not enforced.

A quick cruise line guide to COVID requirements

Here’s a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally. Be sure to review the latest requirements prior to boarding.

American Queen Voyages

On American Queen Voyages’ river, ocean, Great Lakes, and expedition ships, there are no longer any precruise testing or vaccinations required. Face coverings are optional, though masks may be required of any passengers showing symptoms.

Precruise testing is no longer required for vaccinated guests sailing with Azamara , except in ports where testing is required. No vaccination is necessary for cruises departing from or returning to the United States or Europe. In Australia, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing with all required COVID-19 vaccine doses (including a booster shot). Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated.

Celebrity Cruises

No vaccination or testing is required on the majority of Celebrity Cruises sailings. Destinations with stricter requirements include: the Galápagos, Australia and New Zealand, transatlantic crossings, and select Central and South America itineraries. Unvaccinated guests need to be tested in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

As of April 23, 2023, on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , and as of June 8, 2023, on the Queen Elizabeth , vaccinations and testing will no longer be required by Cunard (until then, testing and vaccination requirements apply).

Disney Cruise Line

For sailings embarking from the United States, which are the bulk of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings, no vaccination or testing is required. Disney recommends all guests be vaccinated before sailing and take a test for COVID-19 two days prior to their cruise. There are additional requirements on repositioning cruises and in Australia, so it is important to check the line’s website before your cruise.

Holland America Line

There are no precruise testing or vaccination requirements on most Holland America Line itineraries. There are requirements on select voyages (you can look up a specific voyage’s requirements on the line’s website).

Lindblad Expeditions

For voyages embarking on or after May 11, 2023, Lindblad Expeditions will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, although the line recommends guests be fully vaccinated (for cruises prior to that time, all passengers age five and up must be vaccinated). Lindblad recommends, but does not require, passengers take a predeparture COVID-19 test within five days of the start of their expedition.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine requirements are purely dependent on the destinations being visited on each Oceania cruise. Passengers are advised to be up to date on the latest regulations for all destinations on their cruise itinerary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Effective April 2023, Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer requires that passengers are vaccinated or tested for COVID prior to embarkation, but it continues to encourage vaccination. “Paul Gauguin Cruises’ officers, staff and crew will remain fully vaccinated,” the line states. Travelers will need to present a health declaration form at embarkation.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccines and precruise testing are generally not required to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises . There are some requirements in place based on local health regulations in a specific country a ship is visiting. Regent notifies guests approximately 30 days prior to sailing of any country-specific protocols.

Royal Caribbean

No vaccine or precruise testing is required on the majority of Royal Caribbean itineraries, with a few exceptions: Cruises from Australia, transpacific and transatlantic sailings, and cruises from Hawai‘i to Vancouver.

No vaccine or testing required except on certain Seabourn itineraries where a country may have specific requirements.

No vaccination is required for Silversea passengers except as designated by the destination. Precruise testing is not required except when specified by a destination.

Viking Cruises

All passengers and crew are required to be vaccinated on Viking’s river, ocean, and expedition ships—without exception. Viking strongly recommends passengers receive a booster dose before departing. Viking recommends but does not require a predeparture COVID-19 test (except if required by a destination).

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has no precruise testing or vaccination requirements. Masks may be required at select times.

Windstar Cruises

Beginning June 1, 2023, Windstar will no longer require guests to be vaccinated. Crew will continue to be vaccinated. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending guests wear masks in indoor public spaces. All guests fill out a health questionnaire on embarkation. A precruise COVID-19 test is not required unless you show symptoms.

This article was originally published in May 2022; it was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, with current information.