Royal Caribbean International has announced that it will be using a new protocol this October to help guests enjoy their vacation. The company is making the announcement as part of its continued efforts to improve customer service and provide a better experience for all guests.
Royal Caribbean announced the protocols for the remainder of October. The cruise line is cancelling all cruises due to Hurricane Michael and it’s aftermath. Read more in detail here: royal caribbean cruise cancellations 2021.
Royal Caribbean International has released its health and safety standards for cruises leaving from a US homeport between October 16 and October 31, 2021.
If you missed it, the cruise company released their October 1-15 procedures last week, which you can see here.
The Oasis of the Seas is now moored at Labadee, Haiti (Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)
The majority of the criteria for the second half of October remain the same, although there are a few exceptions. Let’s start with the distinctions:
- Unvaccinated children aged 2 to 11 may have a negative PCR or antigen test result no more than three days before sailing. Children may only show a negative PCR test during the first half of the month.
- In accordance with the preceding point, the PCR or antigen test for children must be completed no more than three days prior to sailing, but not on the day of boarding. The exam may be taken on boarding day from October 1 to 15, as long as it is done before arriving at the cruise port.
- Unvaccinated children aged 2 to 11 must also undergo an antigen test aboard before disembarking, regardless of the duration of the trip. This restriction only applies to trips of 5 days or more during the first half of October. Depending on the duration of the voyage, more testing may be needed.
Let’s have a look at the procedures that will remain the same.
Vaccination
All travellers aged 12 and above must provide evidence of immunization, with the last dosage administered at least 14 days before to departure.
Testing
Passengers 12 and older who have been vaccinated must provide a negative PCR or antigen test result obtained no more than two days before to sailing.
Babies and toddlers under the age of two are not required to get tested.
For vaccinated visitors, home test kits purchased via RoyalCaribbean.com/HomeTestKit are approved and encouraged. The expense of pre-cruise testing is the responsibility of the visitor.
Unvaccinated children aged 2 to 11 will be asked to undergo a free PCR test at check-in on embarkation day.
Excursions from the Beach
Except for Perfect Day at CocoCay, families vacationing with unvaccinated children must buy a tour via Royal Caribbean to go ashore.
READ MORE: Another Chinese cruise ship will now sail in the Mediterranean
Masks
All visitors aged two and above are welcome to participate in the following activities:
No masks are required:
- Unless in a congested environment, in open-air sections of the ship
- In the pool or any other activity in which they may get wet
- Only vaccinated visitors are allowed in some pubs, clubs, restaurants, and theaters.
- In the waiting room
Masks must be worn:
- Unless sitting and eating or drinking, inside in public places
- When visiting public ports of call where local laws may necessitate it
Dining
There will be specific sections in the main dining rooms for parents with unvaccinated children and places for vaccinated visitors exclusively. Only fully vaccinated groups will be allowed to dine at My Time Dining.
Some specialized restaurants will be open to the public, while others will only be open to immunized parties.
Other Locations
There will be signs to direct travellers and venues have been set up to allow for social distancing.
Spaced seating will be available in theaters and activity venues, with choices for everyone as well as alternatives for vaccinated visitors exclusively. Royal Caribbean invites passengers to use the Royal Caribbean app to make show bookings while aboard.
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Royal Caribbean has announced protocols for the remainder of October. The company is expecting to have a full ship by November 1st, but that doesn’t mean you can’t book now! Reference: royal caribbean news and rumors.
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