The excitement of setting sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise has consistently intrigued me, however, lately, the experience has slightly altered.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cruise line to implement new health protocols to keep passengers safe. Vaccination requirements are now in place, with proof of vaccination needed at check-in. Negative COVID tests are also mandatory before boarding.
Mask wearing is a must, and onboard purchases have gone contactless. Hand hygiene measures have been enhanced, and the muster drill process has been made more convenient.
Let’s dive into the details of these new protocols.
Key Takeaways
- Vaccination is required for passengers 12 years and older, with restricted access for unvaccinated individuals.
- All passengers, regardless of vaccination status, must provide a negative COVID test result within 72 hours of boarding.
- Masks are required indoors for all passengers, except when in cabins or dining areas.
- Hand washing and sanitization measures are emphasized, with hand sanitizer dispensers available throughout the ship.
Vaccine Requirements and Proof of Vaccination
I must make sure to bring proof of my vaccination when checking in for the cruise. Royal Caribbean requires all passengers aged 12 and older to be vaccinated. However, there are vaccine exemptions for those who are ineligible or unable to receive the vaccine.
In such cases, children must undergo testing before boarding the ship. Testing for ineligible children is done at the terminal, free of charge.
It is important to note that even vaccinated passengers need to provide a negative COVID test result within 72 hours of boarding. These measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.
I will make sure to comply with these requirements and bring the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Negative COVID Tests Before Boarding
Before boarding the ship, passengers aged two or older must provide a negative COVID test result within 72 hours. This pre-boarding testing requirement ensures the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew on Royal Caribbean cruises.
It is important to note that even vaccinated passengers need to provide a negative test result. For children who are ineligible for the vaccine, testing is done at the terminal free of charge. The testing protocol for ineligible children is designed to identify any potential cases and prevent the spread of the virus onboard.
Passengers are responsible for arranging the test and providing the results before boarding. It is essential to comply with these pre-boarding testing requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience for everyone.
Mask Wearing Guidelines
Masks are required indoors for all passengers, regardless of vaccination status, but exceptions are made for being in your cabin or while eating/drinking in restaurants.
In addition to these guidelines, there are specific policies regarding mask wearing in relaxation areas and outdoor spaces on Royal Caribbean cruises.
In relaxation areas such as the spa or designated quiet zones, masks may be optional for vaccinated passengers. These areas are designed for guests to unwind and enjoy a mask-free experience. However, it is important to note that unvaccinated passengers may still be required to wear masks in these areas to ensure the safety of all guests.
When it comes to outdoor spaces, Royal Caribbean has implemented mask policies that align with current health guidelines. In general, masks are not required outdoors. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying outdoor dining, or participating in outdoor activities, you can breathe freely without a mask. This allows guests to fully embrace the fresh air and sunshine while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment.
To summarize, masks are required indoors for all passengers, with exceptions in cabins and while eating/drinking. Relaxation areas may have optional mask policies for vaccinated passengers, while outdoor spaces do not require masks. These measures are in place to prioritize the health and well-being of all guests onboard.
Contactless Onboard Purchases
When making purchases onboard, I can simply tap my card on a card reader or provide my room number and name for the transaction. This new contactless system for onboard purchases has been implemented to ensure reduced physical contact and promote a safer environment.
Gone are the days of handing over my card to bartenders or staff, as now all I need to do is verify my name and account on the computer. This cashless transaction method not only eliminates the need for physical exchange of cards but also streamlines the process, allowing for quicker and more efficient transactions.
With this new system in place, I can feel confident that my purchases are made with minimal contact and in accordance with the cruise line’s safety protocols.
Enhanced Hand Washing and Sanitization Measures
I prioritize hand washing and sanitization throughout the ship to maintain a clean and safe environment for everyone on board.
Hand hygiene reminders are placed strategically in high-traffic areas to ensure that passengers are aware of the importance of keeping their hands clean.
Additionally, hand sanitizer dispensers are readily available throughout the ship, offering an easy and convenient way for passengers to sanitize their hands.
These measures are crucial in preventing the spread of germs and maintaining a healthy environment.
Whether it’s before dining, shopping, or visiting different areas of the ship, I encourage everyone to practice proper hand hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Passengers Who Need to Provide Proof of Vaccination?
Yes, there are age restrictions for passengers who need to provide proof of vaccination. Passengers 12 years and older must be vaccinated and show proof at check-in.
Can Passengers Bring Their Own Hand Sanitizer or Are They Required to Use the Dispensers Provided?
Passengers can bring their own hand sanitizer if they prefer, but the ship also provides dispensers throughout. The choice is up to the passenger. Personal preferences for sanitization options are accommodated.
Are There Any Additional Requirements for Children Who Are Ineligible for the Vaccine, Besides Undergoing Testing?
Yes, in addition to testing, children ineligible for the vaccine are required to follow the same health protocols as unvaccinated passengers. This includes wearing masks indoors and having negative COVID tests before boarding.
How Often Are the Hand Sanitizer Dispensers and Hand Washing Stations Cleaned and Refilled?
The hand sanitizer dispensers and hand washing stations on Royal Caribbean Cruises are regularly cleaned and refilled to ensure availability and cleanliness. Cleaning frequency is prioritized to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for passengers.
Are There Any Specific Protocols in Place for Passengers Who Test Positive for COVID-19 During the Cruise?
If a passenger tests positive for COVID-19 during the cruise, they will be required to follow onboard quarantine measures. This may include isolating in their cabin and receiving medical care from the ship’s medical team.
Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond.
Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.
