Royal Caribbean (RCI) has released its health protocols for cruises departing from US ports in the second half of October, 2021.
This follows the recent release of the protocols needed for the first half of the month.
For all RCI cruise ship sailing from a US homeport between 16th and 31st October, 2021, all guests of 12 years and older must bring proof of vaccination, such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) COVID-19 vaccination record card, with the final dose of the vaccine completed at least 14 days prior to sailing.
As for testing, before the cruise, all guests of two years of age and over must present a negative PCR or antigen test result:
– vaccinated guests aged 12 and over, this test must be taken no more than two days prior to sailing.
– unvaccinated children between two and 11 years old, the test must be taken no more than three days prior to sailing — but not on boarding day.
– no testing required for guests under two years of age.
Pre-cruise testing costs and scheduling are the guest’s responsibility, RCI stressed.
On embarkation day, unvaccinated guests of between two and 11 years old will take a complimentary PCR test for COVID-19 during check-in. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Once on board, unvaccinated guests aged between two and 11 will take a complimentary antigen test prior to disembarkation. Depending on the number of days on board, there may be additional testing. Registration details will be provided on board.
Turning to shore excursions, families travelling with unvaccinated children are required to purchase a tour through Royal Caribbean to go ashore, except at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Masks are required in the terminal, in select locations inside the ship, and may be required at various destinations. Guests under two years old will not need a mask.
Masks are NOT required to be worn in the following areas:
• in open-air areas of the ship, unless in a crowded setting
• in the pool or any activity where they may become wet
• at venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants and shows
• in a stateroom when with a travelling party
• while visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, unless in a crowded setting
• by any guest under the age of two.
Masks ARE required to be worn:
• while indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking
• while visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.
Some venues and nightlife events will be designated for vaccinated guests age 12 and upwards, only. Masks won’t be required in these venues.
Vaccinated parents are invited to enjoy these experiences while their children are at Adventure Ocean.
As for dining, the main dining room has areas for all parties (vaccinated and those with unvaccinated children). My Time Dining will not be available to unvaccinated children.
Windjammer buffet and Grab-and-go cafes are open to everyone for breakfast and lunch and guests will be served by crew members.
Some speciality restaurants will be designated for vaccinated people only.
Elsewhere, theatres and activity venues offer spaced seating with options for everyone and vaccinated guests only.
Spa services, except those offered in treatment rooms, are available to everyone.
The Fitness Centre has operating hours for everyone, as well as hours reserved for vaccinated guests only.
