What is the Risk of Getting Covid on a Cruise Ship?
Covid remains a high risk in our community, whether onboard a cruise ship or not. However, cruise ships do represent a higher risk because of the close quarter nature of the crew and passengers. This does not mean that an outbreak is guaranteed, nor is it guaranteed an outbreak will disrupt your holiday.
People who are not fully vaccinated against Covid-19, or who are at risk of health complications if they do contract Covid-19, should not board a cruise ship. There are other guidelines for travelling on a cruise ship:
- Do not travel if you have test positive before your trip
- If you have symptoms of Covid-19, such as sore throat, cough, runny nose or shortness of breath
- You have been in contact with someone with Covid-19 in the week before your trip
Cruise Ships are aware of the risks and have taken steps to mitigate the risk of transmission. This includes improved air filtration, increased cleaning and sanitation and touchless experiences where possible. They also have increased medical professionals onboard and extensive Covid-19 training.
What Do You Need To Do?
Your travel agent and cruise line operator should inform you of all protocols involved including at different countries you might be disembarking at, precautions you need to take, the risks involved and what will happen if a Covid outbreak occurs.
Before you travel, check with the State Government’s Covid-19 travel information for information on border closures, testing regimes and isolation requirements. Also check the Australian Government’s website for travel restrictions and the latest travel recommendations for the locations you’ll be visiting on your cruise.
You might also be required to upload your vaccination certificate to prove you have been vaccinated, depending on the cruise line and/or destination you’re travelling to. We highly recommend being up to date on your Covid-19 vaccinations to be best protected during your travels. You will probably have to take a Rapid Antigen Test 24-48 hours before your travel, and a positive result will exclude you from travel. Each Cruise Line has its own rules and guidelines, so check with your Cruise Line about exactly what is required. We will endeavour to provide you with all the information you should need, but don’t be afraid to contact us for more.
What Happens If a Covid Outbreak Occurs?
The Cruise Industry has specific guidelines of what to do during a covid outbreak. If you contract Covid-19, you may be required to self-isolate in your room for a specified duration. There may be increased Covid-19 testing, the mandatory use of PPE, including masks, or if the outbreak is severe, a cancellation of the trip and an immediate return home. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers Covid-19 cancellations, as well as health cover in case you need emergency healthcare from complications of Covid-19.
Cruise Lines’ Requirements
Each cruise line has different requirements for their passengers, including the requirements of the state from which they are departing or disembarking. We have provided a quick round-up here for your convenience, but we should note these are subject to change with short notice, so we recommend double-checking your cruise line before going on your cruise.
Below is a summary of COVID travel information for the most popular Cruise Liners:
Further Resources
If you require any other information, we have a selection of government resources that can offer further information. If you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can provide up to date information on your trip, and any other information you may require.
