COVID-19 travel information
International and domestic cruises have returned and are now successfully sailing with newly introduced safety measures to ensure your cruise is safe.
Pre-boarding requirements around vaccinations and testing can be found on the cruise lines site via the links below. Please select your cruise line to view their latest policy. Please be sure you navigate to the correct information for your cruise as policies may vary between sailings. More information is also available from our Covid-19 FAQ's section.
Vaccinations
Most cruise lines now require all guests to be double vaccinated at least 14 days prior to sailing and often a booster. These tend to be in line with the policies of the countries being visited in your itinerary. It will vary from ship to ship so please ensure you check the latest policy directly with your cruise line using the links provided above.
Proving your vaccination status
Proof of your vaccination status will be required for boarding and must be from an approved source, like the NHS Covid Pass available to download via this link.
Testing
You may need to take a Covid-19 test before you cruise and show proof of a negative result. Some cruise lines no longer require this but it will depend on what cruise you are sailing on so please check pre-boarding requirements via the links above.
Types of tests
There are usually 2 different types of tests a cruise line can request; an antigen test or a PCR test. An antigen test may also be referred to as a lateral flow or rapid test. You will need to check what type of test the cruise requires. This may be dependent on what your vaccination status is.
Where to get a Covid test
The cruise may either require a Covid test be taken that is medically-observed or seft-test, These will need to be purchased from an independent supplier and can be arranged to be delivered to you or an appointment booked to do in person. Medically observed tests may also be available to take from home via video conferencing but it will depend upon the supplier. Instructions come with all kits and documents will be emailed to you proving your negative result. You will need to print these out and take them with you as you embark.
In some instances, cruise lines may not require proof of a negative test but will request that you self test before you board, these can be purchased from a pharmacy. A declaration may be required to sign and random tests may occur at the port.
Insurance
The following cruise lines require that you have travel insurance that specifically mentions and covers Covid-19, proof will be required upon embarkation:
- P&O Cruises
- Cunard
- Princess
- Azamara Cruises
- Marella Cruises
- MSC Cruises
Further information can be found in our Covid-19 FAQ's section