cruise ship requirements to sail

Do I need a COVID vaccine to cruise? A line-by-line guide

When the first cruises allowing Americans restarted in spring 2021, all major lines were sailing with at least 90% of passengers vaccinated against COVID-19. That meant they required just about everyone on board to have their shots, with only a few exceptions allowed for young children and people who can't be vaccinated due to medical conditions or religious beliefs.

Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has withdrawn its opt-in guidance for cruise lines, and most are now allowing unvaccinated passengers to sail. In fact, most aren't even checking to see if cruisers are vaccinated or not.

However, with cases picking up seasonally and new booster vaccines rolling out, will you need a vaccine to cruise? Click on your favorite cruise line above, under "Jump to Section," to find out.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

Note: In order to be considered "fully vaccinated," passengers must have received their final shot (not including boosters) at least 15 days prior to embarkation. Most lines only accept vaccines (or a combination of vaccines) recognized and approved by the World Health Organization and the CDC. Generally, proof of inoculation must include your name, the type of vaccine you received and the dates on which you received all required doses.

Booster shots are not required unless specifically noted. However, keep in mind that the rules may vary by country, with some lines requiring boosters for international departures due to local regulations or for extra-long sailings like ocean crossings when port calls are few or nonexistent. Passengers who have their boosters are considered "up to date" rather than merely "fully vaccinated."

For general information on testing, please refer to our article on cruise testing requirements .

AmaWaterways

Vaccine required no.

AmaWaterways no longer requires proof of vaccination for passengers. However, cruisers are responsible for meeting the requirements of the countries in which they'll be traveling. If they do not, standard cancellation fees will apply. Pre-cruise testing is not required. Should passengers become ill during their cruise, AmaWaterways will assist in procuring testing and other medical services, which will be the financial responsibility of those guests.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines does not have a vaccine requirement for all passengers on any of its sailings. Pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

American Queen Voyages

Vaccines are not required to sail with American Queen Voyages , and pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

Related: What happens if someone tests positive for COVID-19 on your cruise

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Vaccination is not mandatory for Atlas cruises, but passengers must comply with regulations in countries on their scheduled itinerary, which could require that they be up to date on their shots. Additionally, pre-cruise testing is no longer a requirement.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to passenger boarding. However, mandatory testing and proof of vaccination could still be required in some countries the line visits.

Azamara recommends that passengers follow local regulations and the latest guidance from government health organizations when determining which vaccines to obtain prior to travel. The line also does not require negative test results in order to board unless mandated by local governments in the ports where the line's ships sail.

Carnival Cruise Line

Neither vaccines nor pre-cruise testing is required for Carnival sailings. However, the line recommends that anyone 5 years or older be up to date on their shots and carry proof. It also suggests that cruisers test themselves no further than three days from their sailing date to make sure they're in good health.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity does not mandate vaccination or testing for any passenger on any sailing unless required by regulations in the ports its ships are visiting.

Related: Cruise ship contact tracing: How the world's major lines are tracking COVID-19 exposure

Celestyal Cruises

Celestyal continues to require all crew members to be fully vaccinated, but passengers don't have to be. The line recommends anyone 12 and older be up to date on their inoculations. Testing is also no longer necessary in order to board Celestyal ships.

Cunard Line

Although Cunard suggests that travelers be fully vaccinated and current with their boosters, proof of immunization is not required, nor is pre-cruise testing for any of the line's sailing unless required by law.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line encourages — but does not require — all passengers to be fully vaccinated before sailing. It also recommends pre-cruise testing, no more than two days prior to embarkation, for anyone who doesn't have their shots.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises suggests that all passengers be vaccinated, but it no longer checks for proof. Pre-cruise testing is also no longer required, but the line advises travelers to check local regulations in the places they'll be visiting.

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Vaccine required yes.

Grand Circle has mandated that all passengers must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to embarkation as a condition of carriage, and proof must be provided before boarding. Passengers who are not fully vaccinated will have to return home at their own expense. Boosters are not mandatory. Pre-cruise testing might be required, depending on your port of embarkation. (The line will send you that information prior to your sailing.)

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd does not require vaccinations or pre-cruise testing as a condition of sailing. However, the line recommends both to passengers as precautions. It also advises that cruisers are responsible for knowing and adhering to all local guidelines and regulations.

Holland America

Holland America now allows unvaccinated passengers to sail and does not make pre-cruise testing compulsory unless either of these is required by local regulations in the areas its vessels sail. Booked cruisers can search for requirements specific to their individual sailings by using this tool .

Hurtigruten

Vaccine required sometimes.

On expedition cruises with Hurtigruten , passengers are not required to show proof of vaccination, except on 2023 and 2024 voyages to Antarctica and the Northwest Passage or West Africa sailings departing from and returning to Dakar. Immunization is also not necessary for the line's non-expedition itineraries, but it is recommended for both coastal voyages and expedition cruises. Neither type of cruise requires negative test results as a condition of embarkation. Passengers with reservations can check specific protocols for their specific bookings using this tool .

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad passengers no longer need to provide proof of vaccination in order to cruise, and pre-cruise testing is no longer required, including at embarkation. Exceptions might apply for departures from certain destinations. The line urges passengers to follow government recommendations for masking, testing and vaccination.

Related: Why I feel safer now on a cruise ship than in my hometown

MSC Cruises

Vaccination and testing are no longer terms of carriage when sailing with MSC Cruises . The line still recommends that passengers receive their shots and notes that it's each passenger's responsibility to comply with local regulations in the places their sailing visits.

Norwegian Cruise Line

In early August 2022, Norwegian Cruise Line became the first major cruise line to roll back its vaccination requirements. Proof of immunization is no longer required, nor is testing in order to board for any voyage.

Oceania Cruises

Upscale cruise line Oceania does not check vaccination records for passengers, nor does it require pre-cruise testing for its sailings.

P&O Cruises

There are no vaccination or testing mandates in place for any of P&O Cruises ' voyages.

Ponant 's website simply reads, "when you visit certain destinations, vaccines can be recommended," but they are not required by the line. Ponant also says it will alert passengers to their specific requirements after they have booked a voyage. Testing is also not needed in order to board.

Princess Cruises

Following an industry-wide rollback of protocols, Princess passengers no longer have to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine, nor proof of a negative test result, unless either is required by local regulations. Passengers are responsible for knowing the requirements for the places their ships will visit.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent doesn't check the vaccination status of any of its passengers unless required by local protocols. Testing requirements vary by location and might depend on whether or not you are up to date on your shots. If vaccination or testing is required, the line will alert cruisers approximately 30 days prior to their sailing date.

Royal Caribbean

To board Royal Caribbean ships, you don't have to be vaccinated or provide test results. However, the line advises staying up to date on inoculations and following guidelines issued by federal health authorities.

Saga has rolled back its vaccination and testing requirements, which is significant, given that the line only allows passengers 50 and older to sail on its vessels. They will only be required if local authorities dictate them.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Passengers embarking on river and ocean voyages with Scenic will not need to be fully immunized prior to sailing. Testing is not required by the line but might be needed to enter the country in which you're embarking on your sailing. Passengers are responsible for meeting entry requirements.

For cruises with luxury line Seabourn , there are no line-enforced regulations for vaccination or testing unless required by local authorities in the countries on which its vessels call. To see if your booked sailing requires either of these, check out the line's search tool .

Luxury brand Silversea does not require shots for its passengers or pre-cruise tests unless they're needed to meet local regulations.

Star Clippers

Star Clippers has eliminated all vaccine checks and testing protocols for all passengers on all voyages.

For all voyages through 2023, Tauck requires passengers 12 and older to be fully vaccinated and have at least one booster dose and/or show proof of recovery from COVID-19. Passengers 11 years old and younger are not required to be fully vaccinated. If they aren't fully vaccinated or don't have a booster, they must provide proof of a negative PCR or antigen test result from a test taken no more than three days prior to embarkation. For sailings in 2024, vaccination and testing requirements will be waived for all passengers.

UnCruise Adventures

All UnCruise passengers are exempt from vaccine and testing requirements. The line will continue to monitor the effects of new variants, as well as CDC recommendations and will adjust its policies accordingly.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Testing requirements are determined by the countries the ships visit, but the line itself has no vaccine or testing mandates of its own. You can check the protocols for the places on your itinerary for the most up-to-date information by visiting the protocols page on Uniworld's website .

All Viking passengers, whether on a river sailing or an ocean voyage, must be fully vaccinated for sailings departing on or before Oct. 31, 2023. It will not be required for cruisers embarking on or after Nov. 1, 2023. Testing is no longer required unless passengers are exhibiting symptoms and seek medical assistance.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages will not check proof of immunization or a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar no longer mandates shots for passengers of any age. Testing is not required by the line but might be necessary based on local regulations, which with passengers must comply.

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Every Cruise Line's Requirements for COVID Vaccines, Testing

A guide to every major cruise line's health requirements for safe sailing.

Cruise lines have shifted their requirements for passengers, making cruising accessible to practically everyone. Many popular cruise lines have eliminated the vaccine and pre-embarkation test as the industry is beginning to shift away from mandatory vaccines and testing.

The changes began shortly after the CDC ended a pandemic-era policy of publicly displaying COVID-19 cases onboard, different cruise lines to the public in July 2022. For those looking to check current COVID-19 trends onboard the CDC urges direct contact with the cruise line, and the organization will continue to monitor and offer guidelines to ships.

Below, we break down each line's list of regulations to sail as well as what travelers need to know to plan.

American Queen Voyages

Where they sail:

American Queen Voyages is known for its Mississippi River cruises as well as sailings down other U.S. rivers like the Columbia and Snake rivers, using classic paddle wheeler ships for a throwback, romantic vibe.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew must be fully vaccinated (14 days after their final shot).

What other safety measures are in place: Luggage is then disinfected before being brought onto the ship and staterooms cleaned with electrostatic fogging.

Find out more : American Queen Voyages

Avalon Waterways

Where they sail: These small-ship river cruises sail throughout Europe, Asia, South America, and down the Nile River in Egypt.

Who needs the vaccine: All international travelers from the U.S. must be fully vaccinated before boarding. Beginning March 2023 the vaccine is no longer required (but strongly encouraged).

What other safety measures are in place: All guests will undergo a health screening upon arrival and luggage will be disinfected. Avalon will provide COVID-19 testing for travelers who need to show proof of a negative test to return home at no extra cost. Depending on the location of the cruise a pre-departure COVID-19 test may or may not be required.

Find out more: Avalon Waterways

Where they sail : Azamara sails mid-size ships all over the world, to all seven continents.

Who needs the vaccine : All guests and crew 12 and older will be required to be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before boarding a ship. Beginning Dec. 1, 2022, the company plans to drop the vaccine requirement for departures from the U.S. and Europe.

What other safety measures are in place : Depending on the port of embarkation guests may or may not to pre-test to travel. For a full list of ports and whether they require a test guests can check online .

Azamara's ships have been upgraded with new HVAC filtration systems, and EPA-certified disinfectants are used to clean the ship.

Find out more : Azamara

Carnival Cruises

Where they sail: Carnival sails large ships around the world, including popular trips to the Caribbean. The company sailed its maiden voyage on the Mardi Gras out of Florida in July.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are encouraged to be vaccinated but unvaccinated travelers, or vaccinated guests without proof of vaccination, will have to present the negative results of a PCR or antigen test taken no earlier than 3 days before sailing.

What other safety measures are in place: For cruises five days or less, there will no longer be pre-cruise testing for vaccinated passengers unless a specific port requires it. Itineraries including Bahamas, Bermuda, or Grand Cayman will still be required to test. All guests will also be required to fill out a health screening 72 hours before embarkation and undergo health screenings prior to boarding. Unvaccinated travelers on a cruise to Bermuda will be required to purchase travel insurance (children under 12 are exempt as long as they are traveling with vaccinated parents).

Both vaccinated and unvaccinated guests who have recovered from COVID-19 within three months of their sailing date, do not need the required pre-cruise COVID test before embarkation, only if they are at least 10 days past their COVID-19 infection, have no symptoms and present documentation of recovery from COVID-19 from their healthcare provider.

Find out more: Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Where they sail: Celebrity Cruises sails all over the world.

Who needs the vaccine: The vaccine is no longer required to sail on cruises from the U.S. and Europe. A vaccine is required for sailings visiting Canada.

What other safety measures are in place: A pre-embarkation test is no longer required for vaccinated guests on sailings nine days or less. Unvaccinated passengers will still be required to test three days prior to sailing. Self-tests are acceptable from European and U.S. ports that don't stop in Bermuda or Canada.

Find out more : Celebrity Cruises

Where they sail: Cunard, which sails all over the world, is known for its transatlantic journeys aboard the Queen Mary 2.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 18 and older must be fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated passengers under 18 will be required to undergo a PCR test within 72 hours of their departure.

What other safety measures are in place: Cunard has "enhanced" their onboard ventilation systems and implemented mandatory mask-wearing policies indoors. All guests aged 4 and older are required to have a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. Crew will be tested regularly while on board. Guests who have certain pre-existing medical conditions, including those who are on supplementary oxygen, will not be allowed to board.

Find out more: Cunard

Disney Cruise Line

Where they sail: Disney sails family-friendly journeys including to the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccination is no longer required by highly suggested.

What other safety measures are in place: Unvaccinated guests must provide results of a COVID-19 test taken 1 to 2 days before sail date, at home tests are not accepted. The Cruise line also has a full list of enhanced cleaning protocols.

Find out more: Disney Cruise Line

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Where they sail: Grand Circle Cruise Line sails small ships and river cruises all over the world, including an extensive list of European itineraries. The company plans to start sailing again in August, including to Greece, Turkey, and Italy.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew are required to be fully vaccinated with the booster shot.

What other safety measures are in place: All ships have been equipped with High Efficiency Particular Air (HEPA) filters and buffets have been eliminated. The cruise line states some itineraries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to travel , and that instructors will be sent out 30 days prior to travel.

Find out mor e: Grand Circle Cruise Line

Holland America

Where they sail: Holland America sails large ships all over the world, including to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Europe, and more.

Who needs the vaccine: Unvaccinated guests are welcome but will be required to self-test three days before cruising.

What other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated passengers traveling on ships for less than 16 days excluding itineraries with the Panama Canal, trans-ocean, and other selected itineraries will no longer be required to test.

Find out more: Holland America

Lindblad Expeditions

Where they sail: Lindblad Expeditions is known for its adventurous trips to hard-to-reach destinations like Antarctica and the Russian Far East, partnering with National Geographic to add to the experience.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 12 and older need to be vaccinated before boarding. Boosters are recommended but not required.

What other safety measures are in place: Pre-departure testing will not be required unless for a specific destination.

Find out more : Lindblad Expeditions

Margaritaville at Sea

Where they sail: Margaritaville at Sea offers 3-day cruises to Grand Bahama Island departing from the port of Palm Beach. The cruise line also offers the opportunity to take the ship one way to the Bahamas to allow guests to stay at the Margaritaville resort, and then take the ship back to the Bahamas at a later date.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome regardless of vaccination status, according to the cruise line.

What other safety measures are in place: All crew members must be vaccinated for COVID-19 and the cruise line states there are vaccination requirements on board (but does not specify).

Find out more: Margaritaville at Sea

MSC Cruises

Where they sail: MSC Cruises sails large ocean cruises around the world, including throughout Europe, South America, the Persian Gulf, and the Caribbean. In August, the company started sailing to the Bahamas with a stop at its private island, Ocean Cay.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccinations are recommended but no longer required.

What other safety measures are in place: Fully-vaccinated passengers are no longer required to show proof of a negative test unless it is required of the destination. Unvaccinated children must show proof of a negative PCR test.

Find out more: MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Where they sail: Norwegian sails big ocean cruises all around the world, including popular itineraries all throughout the Caribbean and Greece.

Who needs the vaccine: All passengers may sail regardless of vaccination status.

What other safety measures are in place: Testing is no longer required for any passenger regardless of vaccination status with the exception of local government mandates.

Find out more : Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Where they sail: Oceania Cruises sails all over the world, including offering several World Cruise itineraries.

Who needs the vaccine: All passengers regardless of vaccination status are allowed to sail.

What other safety measures are in place: Only unvaccinated guests will be required to show proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken 72 hours prior to boarding. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and younger are exempt.

Find out more : Oceania Cruises

P&O Cruises

Where they sail: The UK-based cruise line sails around Europe, including to the Canary Islands, as well as to the Caribbean from Southampton in the UK.

Who needs the vaccine: Although P&O Cruises' policy states that passengers over the age of 15 are required to be vaccinated, the latest update on its website says guests will be contacted directly in regards to vaccination protocol.

What other safety measures are in place: All guests are required to undergo a COVID-19 test at the terminal. Masks will be required on board indoors, and all shore excursions will be with vetted operators.

Find out more : P&O Cruises

Princess Cruises

Where they sail: The global cruise line sails large ocean ships all around the world, from Australia to Alaska.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome on board, but unvaccinated passengers will be required to test and may need an additional medical exemption at some ports.

Find out more : Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Where they sail: Regent Seven Seas offers all-inclusive luxury cruises around the globe, which include perks like free airfare, free excursions, and complimentary unlimited drinks on board.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are now welcome. Unvaccinated passengers will be required to test 3-days before embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Pre-departure testing may not be necessary depending on the port. Currently cruises leaving from Bermuda, Canada, and Greece will require a test.

Find out more : Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Where they sail: Royal Caribbean sails large ocean ships all over the world, including many popular itineraries throughout the Caribbean and Asia.

Who needs the vaccine: Everyone is welcome regardless of vaccination status, passengers traveling to Bermuda or Canada are required to be vaccinated.

W hat other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated travelers will no longer need a negative test on sailings shorter than 10 nights. Unvaccinated travelers aged 5 and older will need to take a test within 3 days of boarding. Self-administered tests are accepted.

Find out more : Royal Caribbean International

Where they sail: The British cruise line, exclusively for guests 50 and older, sails both ocean and river cruises around the globe.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests must be fully vaccinated, including a booster shot at least 14 days before boarding a ship. Saga was the first major cruise line to implement this vaccination policy.

What other safety measures are in place: Ocean Cruise guests will be required to get tested for COVID-19 in the terminal. Masks are required on bus transfers, in hotels, and on excursions.

Find out more : Saga

Where they sail: Seabourn's mid-size luxury cruises head all around the world, from Alaska to the Caribbean.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccinations are not required on most cruise itineraries, unvaccinated guests will be required to present a negative test taken within three days of embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Masks are recommended onboard in most indoor venues and the casinos are frequently sanitized.

Find out more : Seabourn

Where they sail: Silversea brings guests all around the world in luxury and style , including to the Galapagos and Antarctica .

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome, however, unvaccinated guests may not be welcome on all sailings depending on local regulations.

What other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated guests do not need a pre-departure test unless local regulations such as cruises leaving from Australia, Bermuda, Canada, or Greece require it. Unvaccinated travelers will need a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of embarkation.

Find out more : Silversea

UnCruise Adventures

Where they sail: This small-ship company is known for its Alaska journeys as well as adventures in places like the Galapagos and island hopping in Hawaii.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 12 and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding. At least one booster is required to sail.

What other safety measures are in place: Guests are not required, but requested to test before departing from home (this policy is subject to change as COVID-19 trends change,) as the company states passengers should test to "be a good citizen". Each ship can perform rapid molecular tests on board. The cruise states they will not visit any destinations where vaccine rates are low.

Masks are required in public spaces, according to the company "bandana" and "buff" face masks will not be accepted.

Find out more : UnCruise Adventures

Victory Cruise Lines

Where they sail: Victory Cruise Lines is known for its Great Lakes cruises, providing all-inclusive sailings to see breathtaking sights from Niagara Falls to the iconic architecture of Chicago from Lake Michigan. Beyond the U.S., Victory Cruise Lines sails to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew will be required to be vaccinated before boarding, and will be required to show physical proof prior to boarding.

What other safety measures are in place: Testing is no longer required on any river cruise.

Luggage is then disinfected before being brought onto the ship and staterooms cleaned with electrostatic fogging. Masks will be required during the embarkation process and while riding a shore excursion bus, but will not be required on board.

Find out more : Victory Cruise Lines

Viking Cruises

Where they sail: Viking sails ocean and river cruises all over the world, including throughout Europe. This summer, Viking will sail several voyages, including around England for UK residents, to Bermuda, and to Iceland in June.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests must be fully vaccinated to board a ship. Guests who are eligible must have a booster.

What other safety measures are in place: In addition to vaccines, all guests may be required to undergo a saliva PCR test at embarkation as well as "frequent" testing throughout the journey. All staterooms are equipped with independent air handling units.

Find out more : Viking Cruises

Virgin Voyages

Where they sail: The brand-new cruise line is launching mini sailings from England for UK residents, and has cruises throughout the Caribbean, and transatlantic options.

Who needs the vaccine: All are welcome regardless of vaccination status, unvaccinated passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Virgin Voyages was the first cruise line to eliminate pre-departure testing for vaccinated guests. The cruise line will continue to work with an advisory board to help ensure health and safety on board at all times, including the use of air filtration systems and sanitization of high touch surface areas.

Find out more : Virgin Voyages

Windstar Cruises

Where they sail: Windstar operates small-ship cruises and several sailing vessels all around the globe, including to places like Central America .

Who needs the vaccine: All guests will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding one of Windstar's yachts. Boosters are highly encouraged and are recommended to be administered at least one week prior to travel.

What other safety measures are in place: Guests no longer need a pre-embarkation test unless a specific destination requires it.

Find out more : Windstar Cruises

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Cruise Ships Can Sail Again, With Strict Rules. Here’s What to Know.

Cruise companies must follow stringent health and safety protocols to be allowed to resume passenger excursions.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday lifted its “no sail” order on U.S. cruise ships and set out a framework for how cruising could restart.

Under the new structure, cruise companies must demonstrate adherence to stringent health and safety protocols including extensive testing , quarantine measures and social distancing. If they meet these C.D.C. standards, first on a series of crew-only test sailings, they will eventually be allowed to resume passenger excursions.

The “no sail” order was originally issued on March 14 for all American cruises after it emerged that cruise ships played a major role in the initial outbreak of the coronavirus. The ships were remarkably efficient at spreading the virus: On board the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan in February, each case of Covid-19 was transmitted to approximately 15 other people. In Wuhan, China — the original epicenter of the virus — one person transmitted the disease to about four other people, a recent study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine found.

In September, the C.D.C. recommended an extension to the policy until February amid reports of outbreaks on ships in other countries, but that advice was overruled by a White House coronavirus task force.

The restrictions on sailings have ravaged the cruise industry with companies reporting billions of dollars in losses as their fleets have remained idled in open waters or in ports. In recent months, cruise executives have been scrambling to put together teams of scientists and health experts to devise comprehensive safety protocols that will allow cruising to return, and they gave a lengthy list of suggestions to the C.D.C.

On Friday, the C.D.C. said the benefits of the new framework outweigh the costs of not allowing cruise ships to sail, providing flexibility for companies that have taken necessary precautions to mitigate risk, while continuing to prohibit operations for those that fail to implement the necessary measures.

Here’s how the decision will likely impact cruises in the coming months.

How soon will I be able to get on a cruise?

In short, not soon.

The first ships to sail in U.S. waters will be simulated voyages designed to test a vessel’s capabilities to implement health and safety protocols and prove the cruise line’s ability to mitigate the risks of Covid-19 onboard.

Cruise lines will not be allowed to commence passenger operations until they meet all the requirements and are granted a conditional Covid-19 sailing certificate issued by the C.D.C.

Most major cruise lines have announced that they will not resume operations until 2021 and this week the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry group that represents most of the largest cruise companies, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean and MSC, said that its members would not sail from U.S. ports until 2021. The companies would use the rest of the year to work on implementing the C.D.C.’s requirements, the association said.

What safety measures can I expect?

The ships will be required to provide rapid laboratory testing of all passengers and crew on the day of embarkation and the day of disembarkation. Onboard testing capabilities will be developed in coordination with the C.D.C. to test all symptomatic travelers, including crew members and future passengers.

Under the new order, cruise ship operators must meet standards for hand hygiene, face coverings and social distancing for passengers and crew as well as ship sanitation. Meal services and entertainment venues will be modified to ensure that physical distancing can be implemented.

Does that mean I’ll have to wear a mask?

For the test cruises, the C.D.C. said that masks are one of the measures that “may be required by C.D.C. technical instructions or orders,” but it does not lay out where and when they might be mandated. Mask use was included among the suggestions from the industry executives to the C.D.C.

What happens if I test positive for the coronavirus?

Passengers who test positive for Covid-19 before boarding a cruise ship will not be permitted to board. Those who test positive onboard a ship will be isolated and then transferred to a dedicated facility on shore. All remaining passengers and nonessential crew will also be required to go into quarantine. In the spring, some passengers spent weeks confined to their staterooms after cases broke out on board their cruises.

Cruise operators are expected to have the proper medical equipment, expertise and training to treat severely ill passengers who contract Covid-19 while on board until they can be safety transferred to onshore medical facilities.

Will passengers be allowed to go on shore excursions?

Initially shore excursions will be closely controlled and limited to private and domestic destinations. Cruise operators are devising protocols to vet vendors for onshore excursions to ensure that they comply with health and safety protocols that are applied on board ships. The measures include physical distancing, sanitation, personal protective equipment, personnel screening and training.

On a recent sailing by the Costa Diadema, a ship belonging to the Carnival Corporation’s Italian cruise operation, cases cropped up despite testing after passengers took shore excursions on the Greek Islands. The guests were asymptomatic and tested positive upon re-entry into Italy.

Under the C. D.C.’s new requirements, cruise ships will not be permitted to sail with an itinerary that lasts longer than seven days. This period may be shortened or lengthened based on public health considerations.

The health agency’s framework applies to cruise ships that intend to operate in U.S. waters.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a London-based reporter. She joined The Times in 2013, and was previously a correspondent in Turkey covering politics, the migrant crisis, the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

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CDC Releases Technical Instructions for Cruise Ships to Sail Again

• April 2, 2021

After five months, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released its long-awaited technical guidelines for cruise ships to sail again in the United States. They are available to view here.

The seven pages of regulations were released on Friday afternoon, April 2, and represent a pathway for cruise lines to operate again in the United States, although with significant logistical hurdles “designed to minimize the burden to the greatest extent possible on Federal, State, and Local government resources.”

In short, the CDC is asking cruise lines to demonstrate they can handle a COVID-19 incident themselves, from a quarantine, healthcare and transportation standpoint.

One problem: the CDC did not mention a date of when ships could sail, or begin trial voyages.

Key  Takeaways

• The CDC recommended in its regulations that all port personnel, and travelers (passengers and crew) receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
• A cruise ship operator must document the approval of all U.S. port and local health authorities where the ship intends to dock or make port during one or more simulated voyages or restricted passenger voyages as a condition of receiving or retaining controlled free pratique for conducting one or more simulated voyages or receiving and retaining a COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate.
• The agreement must include a port operations component (including a vaccination component), a medical care plan component, and a housing component meeting the requirements. 
• The CDC will require a presentation of proposals regarding how the cruise ship operator intends to incorporate vaccination strategies to maximally protect passengers and crew from introduction, amplification, and spread of COVID-19 in the maritime environment and land-based communities.
• The CDC is requiring significant embarkation screening and onboard protocols, including medical evacuation at sea for COVID-19 reasons. Protocols must rely on commercial resources (e.g., ship tender, chartered standby vessel, chartered airlift) for unavoidable medical evacuation at sea and be designed to minimize the burden to the greatest extent possible on Federal, State, and Local government resources, including U.S. Coast Guard resources. All medical evacuations at sea must be coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard.
• The regulations also require significant disembarkation protocols should there be an outbreak.
• A cruise ship operator’s agreement with all U.S. port and local health authorities where the ship intends to dock or make port during one or more simulated voyages or restricted passenger voyages must incorporate medical care agreements between the cruise ship operator and health care entities, addressing evacuation and medical transport to onshore hospitals for passengers or crew in need of care, in accordance with CDC technical instructions and orders.
• Cruise lines must also consider the potential medical care needs of travelers including the capacity of local public health, port authority, hospital, and other emergency response personnel to respond to an onboard outbreak of COVID-19. Cruise lines must explain the factors relied upon by all parties in determining the capacity of the cruise ship operator’s contractual shoreside medical facilities or healthcare systems
• The agreement must consider where the ship will be physically located during the isolation and quarantine period (i.e., at the pier or at anchor). The parties to the agreement must jointly consider the potential housing needs of travelers including the capacity of local public health, port authorities, hospital, and other emergency response personnel to oversee and monitor the housing needs of travelers under isolation and quarantine. The agreement must briefly explain the factors relied upon by all parties in determining the sufficiency of the cruise ship operator’s contractual or corporate-owned shoreside housing facilities.
• Any shoreside housing must meet CDC guidelines. 

This article will be updated shortly with more information.

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Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

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A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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Consider downloading this  Cruise Ship Travel Tips PDF  to take with you while you travel.  

Special Notes for Cuba Travel: 

• Ensure shore excursions and purchases comply with  U.S. regulations . 
• U.S. credit and debit cards do NOT work in  Cuba . Bring enough cash to cover your stay. This includes payment for hotels, restaurants, taxis, souvenir shops, etc. 

Before your cruise: 

• Make sure you review the latest  CDC guidance on cruise ship travel . 
• Read our  Traveler’s Checklist  . 
• Check our  country information pages for the countries you will be visiting to learn about important health and safety precautions to take. Write down the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. 
• Always carry your passport book with you in case of an emergency. You may need your passport in the event of an unexpected medical evacuation or if the ship docks at an alternate port. You should bring your passport even if your cruise says you won’t need it. 
• Apply early for your  passport , or make sure your current one will be valid at least six months beyond your travel dates and has two or more blank pages. Your cruise company may also require you to have a passport even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or foreign port of entry does not. 
• Have the right foreign visas for all stops on your cruise, if required, even if you do not plan to disembark in those locations. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . You will get important safety and security info. Follow us @TravelGov on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram for travel and security information. 
• Make sure you have medical and emergency evacuation insurance that will cover your trip. Consider buying supplemental insurance. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. 
• You may also need other insurance for unexpected travel expenses when abroad. Check with your cruise line or travel agency to see if they provide such coverage. You can also check with your health or homeowner’s insurance providers and credit card companies, which sometimes provide this coverage overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance.
• Have a contingency plan for returning home if you must remain in a foreign country longer than expected. Make color copies of your passport photo page, foreign visas, and itinerary. Leave one copy with a trusted family member or friend and carry one separately from your actual documents. Make sure to take a photo of your travel documents with your phone to have electronic copies as well.

Medication and vaccination requirements: 

• Check with your doctor to make sure that traveling abroad to your destinations is  medically safe  for you and whether you need any vaccinations and/or assistive devices on your trip.  
• Check with the foreign country's embassy in the United States. They can tell you whether your medications are legal in each country you visit. Also, find out if there are limits or special instructions for bringing them in. For some medications, you may need a letter from your doctor. Carrying it in the prescription bottle might not be enough “proof.” Remember, you are required to follow the local laws of the countries you visit, including with respect to medications, even if those laws differ from the laws of the United States.
• Ensure you have enough of your  prescription medications  to last beyond your trip dates, in case of possible delays. Some countries may not have equivalents of your prescription and over-the-counter medications. 
• Carry a written copy of all your prescriptions with you in case a country requires it, or you need to replace your medications. 

Ask Your Cruise Line: 

• What their procedures are in case of emergency. 
• How family members can contact you in an emergency, such as cell or satellite phone coverage and/or an e-mail address for emergencies. 
• What types of medical services your ship can provide, such as basic or urgent care, hospitalization, dialysis, etc. 
• Check your cruise line’s prohibited items list when considering what to take with you. 

During Your Cruise: 

• Remain vigilant and exercise normal precautions aboard a cruise ship and on shore, as you would whenever traveling abroad. 
• Limit your alcohol intake.  
• Ensure cabin safety and make sure the door and balcony are properly locked at all times.  
• Consider storing your travel documents and other valuables in a secure spot, such as a safe in your room or the ship’s safe. 
• Talk to the security personnel on board if you are the victim of a crime. The cruise ship should have procedures in place for handling a crime onboard. 
• Follow local laws and customs. If you break the law, you may be arrested and prosecuted.
• If you are the  victim of a crime on shore , report it to local authorities, the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate , and to cruise ship security personnel. 
• If you lose your passport, report it right away to the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate . Make plans to get a new passport as soon as possible.  
• Follow  CDC guidance  after you disembark.

Other Things to Keep in Mind:

Check our travelers page to learn more about specific issues you might face abroad. These include special considerations for older travelers, those with disabilities, women, and LGBTQI+ travelers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

I heard you can use a passport card for a cruise, is that true.

You can use the passport card to reenter the United States at seaports of entry from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. However, if you cannot return on the cruise ship for any reason, you will need a passport book to fly back to the United States. 

Unexpected circumstances that can make it important you have a passport book include:

• Illness or Injury – Depending on how severe your illness or injury is, you may have to be admitted to a local hospital overseas. If you cannot be discharged before the cruise ship is scheduled to depart, the cruise ship may leave without you. In this case, you would need a U.S. passport to fly home upon clearance from your doctor. 
• Damage to cruise ship – Occasionally cruise ships are damaged or have mechanical issues that cannot be fixed during your trip. In these cases, you might need to go ashore in a country which requires a passport and/or you would need a U.S passport book to fly home.

Your cruise company also may require you to have a passport, even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the foreign country’s border agency does not. 

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Thank you for choosing Norwegian. We can't wait to welcome you onboard, but first, let's go over everything you need to prepare for an amazing holiday ahead. Learn what to expect at the pier and how we've enhanced Online Check-In to expedite the boarding process and maximise your holiday time. Sail Safe™ Health & Safety Program . All guests age twelve and over and crew are required to be 100% fully vaccinated so you can do what you’ve always wanted to do on a cruise — EVERYTHING.--> Start customising your holiday by logging in to My NCL or download the Cruise Norwegian App .

*As government regulations evolve, our health and safety protocols will evolve as needed to ensure compliance. This may mean different protocols from ship to ship based on local requirements. For additional information, please visit Cruise Travel Requirements by Country . Check our frequently asked questions in regard to Sail Safe™ Health & Safety Programme .

Please note on the video below: The pre-testing information in the Health & Safety video below is only applicable on cruises with embarkation dates through January 16, 2022.

PREPARATION FOR YOUR CRUISE

Online Check-In

Download eDocs

Download the Mobile App

Country Requirements

All guests age twelve and over must be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks prior to embarkation. Proof of accepted vaccination against COVID-19 must be shown at the cruise pier to board the ship. Pre-cruise testing and additional health screenings for unvaccinated guests under the age of twelve (on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canadian port) will be conducted at terminal for extra measure.

Unless otherwise stipulated by local regulations (Cruise Travel Requirements by Country) that would supersede our policy, at time of check-in, all guests will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party or via medically supervised home test within two days prior to embarkation date for cruises originating in a U.S. or Canadian port and within three days prior for voyages departing from a non-U.S. port.

In order to facilitate, Norwegian has partnered with Inspired Diagnostics lab to ensure that guests have access to a quick, efficient and easy way to access the required FDA-approved proctored in-home antigen test prior to embarkation from the comfort of their own home. Inspired Diagnostics is a subsidiary of Inspire Health Alliance, a leader in best-in-class health services. Testing at home is safe, simple, and convenient. Purchasing in-home testing kits is simple.

• Sign up on the testing site https://inspirediagnostics.com/ncl/
• Receive the test kit(s) by UPS
• Schedule an on-line proctoring consultation
• Receive certified results via email

Guests are also responsible for complying with all local health and safety requirements which may include additional pre-embarkation testing at the terminal. On select sailings where local government or health authorities may require guests to partake in additional COVID-19 testing prior to boarding, NCL will provide free testing at the terminal. Please refer to Cruise Travel Requirements by Country for country specific requirements.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 will be required to bring proof of a negative NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party within three days prior to embarkation date. Failure to comply will result in denial of boardin g.

Additionally, unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canada port will be subject to additional testing at embarkation and disembarkation administered and paid for by the cruise line, as part of the U.S Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Voluntary COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships Operating in U.S. Waters.

Other available pre-embarkation testing services:

Additionally, the following services offer a verified third party or medically supervised at home testing: eMed or BioReference-Scarlett Concierge testing service – BioReference sends a trained Scarlet Health Professional to your home to collect your COVID-19 test specimen. Locate a Covid-19 Testing Provider Prior to Your Cruise: Should you need to locate a testing provider prior to beginning travel or while traveling prior to your cruise, please visit TestForTravel.com , an easy-to-use online tool for locating COVID-19 testing providers around the world. Simply enter your zip code, or city and country, and the website will display locations, contact information, and testing hours. It also allows you to search by test type – PCR or Antigen

At time of check-in, all guests will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result administered by a verified third party or via medically supervised home test (i.e.  https://www.emed.com/  or  BioReference-Scarlett Concierge  testing service - BioReference sends a trained Scarlet Health Professional to your home to collect your COVID-19 test specimen), within two days prior to boarding for cruises originating in a U.S. or Canadian port and three days prior for voyages departing from a non-U.S. port. If a guest is unable to provide proof of a negative result at the time of embarkation, testing will be available at the terminal at the guest’s expense. Guests are also responsible for complying with all local health and safety requirements which may include additional testing.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 will be required to bring proof of a negative NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party within three days prior to embarkation date. Failure to comply will result in denial of boarding.

Should you need to locate a testing provider prior to beginning travel or while traveling prior to your cruise, please visit TestForTravel.com , an easy-to-use online tool for locating COVID-19 testing providers around the world. Simply enter your zip code, or city and country, and the website will display locations, contact information, and testing hours. It also allows you to search by test type – PCR or Antigen.

For guests that prefer to test prior to travel in the comfort of their home or while traveling, we have partnered with Inspired Diagnostics to provide FDA-approved, proctored, in-home antigen testing for our guests. Inspired Diagnostics is a subsidiary of Inspire Health Alliance, a leader in best-in-class health services. Testing at home is safe, simple, and convenient. Purchasing in-home testing kits takes just five simple, easy steps at: https://inspirediagnostics.com/ncl/ .

*Residents of the United Kingdom are required to provide additional proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test. See FAQs below.

Save Time at Embarkation Complete Your Online Check-In

New health and safety steps added to Online Check-In will significantly cut down processing time at the pier. Experience a much faster, more seamless boarding process when you complete all required steps listed below. Online Check-In for all guests is required to download your eDocs (boarding pass). Port security requires each guest to present their eDocs to enter the pier. PLEASE NOTE: You will lose the opportunity to Check-in online 3 days prior to sailing.

Complete these steps in Online Check-In:

• Travel Documentation: Provide passport number or travel documentation information
• Flight Information: Provide airline details and purchase transfers to the pier and back to the airport.
• Onboard Payment Preferences: Select either credit card, debit card or cash

Added Steps for Health and Safety:

• Acknowledge that you and each guest age twelve and over in your stateroom will be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks prior to departure (for sailings prior to December 31, 2021)
• Take a Selfie Photo: Use your computer webcam or mobile phone camera to capture your pre-cruise security photo. You can come back to this step on the Mobile app if you don't have a web cam.

These steps will be available 21 days prior to your sail date:

• Reserve an arrival time to check-in at the pier. You will only be allowed to enter the terminal during this time.
• Watch the Required Safety Video in advance to avoid large crowd gathering onboard. Learn important muster drill, life jacket and onboard safety procedures.

Download or Print EDOCS - Your Boarding Pass

Select "Download eDocs" once you've completed Online Check-In for each guest. Print a copy or save a screen grab from your phone containing guest name, terminal arrival time, ship, stateroom and bar code. Port security will check eDocs for this information along with passport/identification to allow entry to the port. You'll be able to download eDocs 21 days prior to your sailing after Online Check-In is complete. Failure to show eDocs at embarkation will result in long wait times at the port.

Planning in the Palm of Your Hand Cruise Norwegian Mobile App

Download the Cruise Norwegian mobile app via the App Store or Google Play. The first step to planning your cruise is linking your account to to the app. You'll be all set to explore and plan all the things you can do onboard. The Cruise Norwegian App will work automatically when you connect to the ship's wi-fi when you board the ship.

Log In to My NCL

• If you booked through a travel agent, or never logged in before, create an account.
• Answer "yes" to "Do you currently have a cruise reservation?"
• Enter your ship name, reservation number and sail date to add your reservation to your account.
• If you're having trouble finding your cruise, either re-set your password or call our Technical Support department at 00800 0310 21 21.

Customise Everything Onboard and Ashore

• Book Shore Excursions. Explore & Plan adventures at each port.
• Make dinner reservations. You can plan a different restaurant for every day of the week
• Learn about all of the onboard experiences on your ship.
• Reserve your seats at award-winning entertainment.
• Get a birdseye view of your itinerary. See everything you've planned for the days at port.
• Join a “Virtual Queue” to avoid long lines.
• Text message and call other guests when onboard.
• Read the Digital Freestyle Daily Newsletter , a timetable of what's happening onboard.
• Track your onboard purchases throughout your holiday.

Our enhanced, staggered embarkation process will streamline check-in by allowing guests to reserve arrival time at the pier during Online Check-In. Security will allow guests to enter the port at reservation time noted on your eDocs.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of twelve on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canadian port will be subject to additional testing at embarkation and disembarkation administered and paid for by the cruise line.

Along with your eDocs, you'll need to bring proof of COVID-19 vaccination (if you are age twelve and older), proof of negative COVID-19 test (PCR if under the age of twelve and unvaccinated), your passport and/or required travel documentation to board the ship.

We've developed a robust and comprehensive health and safety strategy with new and enhanced protocols to create multiple layers of protection against COVID-19. Our science-backed plan will be continuously evaluated using the latest science and technology.

LEARN MORE >

Please note: The Health & Safety video below is only applicable on cruises with embarkation dates through January 16, 2022.

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Updated: When Major Cruise Lines Plan to Resume Sailings from the United States

In March 2020, the entire cruise industry made history when it announced it would voluntarily suspend sailing in the United States for 30 days . To further ensure cruises were halted, there was also a “No Sail Order” put in place by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Of course, the original suspensions of only a month proved to be far too optimistic. In total, cruise lines were suspended for nearly 500 days before any of them returned to sailing at all from the United States. Now, they are in the midst of a measured and deliberate return.

The CDC, which had extended a “No Sail Order” multiple times, allowed that order to expire at the end of October 2020. Now, it has given cruise lines a “ Framework for Conditional Sailing .” This order lays out a pathway for cruises to get back to sailing, but not without meeting stringent requirements.

The good news for cruising is that as of June 26, 2021, the first ship — Celebrity Edge — returned to sailing from the U.S. More cruise lines and ships are returning slowly but surely.

We’ve laid out all the dates that major cruise lines have trips scheduled to return (or have already returned) to sailing from the United States. As you’ll see below, the 2021 summer looks promising for a return to cruising for cruise lines, although anything can happen given the virus.

Note: Dates mentioned are scheduled return dates for cruises from the U.S. In some cases cruise lines might start sailing in other regions earlier than the dates listed below.

CDC Framework and Its Impact on the Resumption of Cruises

With the new "Framework for Conditional Sailing," cruise lines now have a much clearer path to getting back to sailing, though certainly not easy.

While the framework lays out a path, there are no actual dates specified within the process. There are, however, certain steps that the CDC says cruise lines must follow. 

The framework itself is a series of measures that cruise lines must take, falling into four categories:

• Testing and protection of crew onboard cruise ships in U.S. waters
• Simulated voyages with volunteer passengers to test new policies
• Certification process through the CDC to be fit for sailing
• Return of paid-passenger cruises in line with CDC protocols

Within each of these categories are multiple measures cruise lines must take in order to complete the framework. Once completed, then the cruise lines can apply for a "Conditional Sailing Certificate" to return to sailing.

For a full explanation of all the steps and their requirements, see our article here .

Recently, the CDC eased some rules for cruise lines if they sail fully vaccinated trips where 98% of crew and 95% of passengers have the shot. For instance, if a cruise ship sails a fully vaccinated trip, they can skip the simulated voyages, drastically cutting down the time needed to meet the CDC requirements.

So far cruise lines have followed two different paths. Some are opting to sail with less than 95% vaccinated passengers. In this case, they are sailing simulated voyages and also having masking and distancing rules on the ship.

Cruise lines sailing above the 95% threshold -- such as Carnival -- can forego the test cruises. As well, life on the ship is different as masking and distancing aren't required except in certain instances.

Cruises Return, But Still Months Until All Ships Are Back

The process of cruises returning is like nothing the industry has seen before. There is no precedent. That makes it more difficult to understand exactly how it will play out.

The process has been slow so far with the CDC, but it is starting to ramp up more quickly. Already, several major lines including Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival have officially returned to sailing, with many more scheduled in the weeks and months ahead.

But the full return of ships will take many more months to play out -- even if all goes well. Carnival has said that it plans to have 15 ships sailing (slightly more than half its fleet) by the end of October. 

All of this, of course, is dependent that a rise in virus cases doesn't impact the return and vaccines continue to work against the virus. 

Keep in mind that this situation is truly unprecedented. There is simply no way to know exactly when cruises return until the ship leaves the dock with passengers. 

Below are the latest return dates for U.S. sailings, based on currently scheduled cruises.

Carnival Cruise Lines: Resumed Sailing July 3

Carnival -- arguably the world's most famous cruise line -- wasn't the first cruise line to return to sailing from the United States. However, it was among the earliest to return.

Its first cruise from the U.S. departed Galveston on July 3, 2021 aboard Carnival Vista. It was followed the next day by Carnival Horizon, sailing from Miami. Now the cruise line plans to have 15 ships sailing by the end of October, with the vast majority of passengers sailing vaccinated.

• Carnival Vista from Galveston sailing July 3
• Carnival Horizon from Miami sailing July 4
• Carnival Breeze from Galveston sailing July 15
• Carnival Miracle from Seattle sailing July 27 through September 14
• Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral sailing July 31
• Carnival Magic from Port Canaveral sailing August 7
• Carnival Sunrise from Miami sailing August 14
• Carnival Panorama from Long Beach sailing August 21
• Carnival Glory from New Orleans sailing September 5
• Carnival Pride from Baltimore sailing September 12
• Carnival Dream from Galveston sailing September 19
• Carnival Miracle from Long Beach sailing September 27
• Carnival Conquest from Miami sailing October 8
• Carnival Freedom from Miami sailing October 9
• Carnival Elation from Port Canaveral sailing October 11
• Carnival Sensation from Mobile sailing October 21

Royal Caribbean: Resumed Sailing July 2

Royal Caribbean made its original pause announcements in two different segments. First, the company announced it suspended U.S. sailings starting March 14. Then, starting on March 15, Royal Caribbean suspended its cruises around the world.

Originally the company planned to return to operations in mid-April 2020. After multiple extensions, the first U.S. sailing departed Miami aboard Freedom of the Seas on July 2, 2021.

Other ships currently or planning to sail from the U.S. include:

• Serenade of the Seas from Seattle
• Ovation of the Seas from Seattle
• Independence of the Seas from Galveston
• Odyssey of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale
• Symphony of the Seas from Miami
• Allure of the Seas from Port Canaveral
• Mariner of the Seas from Port Canaveral 

So far, Royal Caribbean has planned its return with simulated cruises, giving more leeway regarding unvaccinated passengers. While adults (and kids over 12) on most cruises (except those departing Florida) require the shot, kids ineligible for the vaccine are also allowed to sail.

Celebrity Cruises: Resumed Sailing June 26

Celebrity Cruises made history as being the first line to make a return to the United States. When Celebrity Edge departed Fort Lauderdale on June 26, it marked the first major ship to sail from the U.S. in roughly 470 days.

Other ships scheduled to sail from America in 2021 include Celebrity Equinox, Millennium, Summit, Reflection, and Apex.

In addition, ships have already returned to other parts of the world.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Resume Sailing August 7

As of March 2020, Norwegian made the call to suspend voyages across their fleet worldwide. The plan was for the ships to resume sailing in April 2020, but the suspension was lengthened multiple times. It's now been extended through July 2021 for the U.S., with cruises returning in August. 

According to the NCL, the first cruise scheduled from the United States is a trip from Seattle to Alaska on August 7.

Notably, there is some question if that cruise will sail from Florida, where trips are scheduled starting August 15. Norwegian has been firm that it wants to sail with 100% of passengers vaccinated. However, Florida law says businesses can't require proof of vaccination from customers.

This has led to tension between the state and the cruise line. Recently, the cruise line's parent company filed suit to be able to sail fully vaccinated from the state . It's not clear what will come of the suit or NCL's restart plans given the desire to sail fully vaccinated from Florida.

Disney Cruise Line: Resume Sailing August 9

Disney suspended sailing along with the other major cruise lines. Originally it said that the suspension would last through the end of March 2020. Then it extended that date for all four of its ships to April 12, with trips resuming on April 13, 2020.

Now, according to a notice on its website Disney will resume sailing in August from Florida, with some U.K. cruises for the Disney Magic as well.

The first Disney cruise ship scheduled to return from the U.S. is the Dream on August 9, 2021, from Port Canaveral. It will sail on 3 and 4-night trips to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. 

MSC Cruises: Resume Sailing August 2

MSC is a global cruise line and has ships sailing worldwide, but it is making inroads into the United States with some of its newest and largest vessels.

In the United States, trips are scheduled to begin again August 2, 2021 according to CruiseIndustryNews.com . The first trip will be aboard MSC Meraviglia, which will offer short 3 and 4-night cruises to The Bahamas, including its private island, Ocean Cay. 

Notably, MSC has some practice in sailing in the new environment. They've had a number of sailings in Europe under new regulations and seem to be successful in keeping passengers healthy.

Princess Cruises: Resume Sailing July 25

Princess has been the cruise line perhaps most impacted by the crisis. At least two of its ships had virus outbreaks in the early days of the crisis, leading to headlines around the world.

It also made the news by being the first major cruise line to announce a voluntary suspension of cruising , which was quickly followed by other lines. Princess originally announced it would stop all cruises from March 12 through May 10, 2020. Of course, that's now been extended multiple times.

Princess paused operations through most of July, but now plans to sail from Alaska, departing Seattle starting July 25 aboard Majestic Princess -- 500 days after stopping sailing in 2020. 

Holland America: Resume Sailing July 24

Holland America suspended departures around the world through July 2021, after pausing back in March 2020. But at the end of July the cruise line will make its return, with a cruise sailing from Seattle.

The cruise line will start sailing to Alaska from Seattle, beginning on July 24 aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam. From there the line will return to sailing around the world, including Greece, Italy, Spain, and more U.S. departures later in the year.

What Will Cruising Look Like When It Does Resume?

It's clear that when cruises do come back, in some cases it's going to look very different than it did going into the crisis. While a number of requirements have been announced, it's unclear how long they will be in place. Like everything else during the crisis, expect the situation to be fluid as the world re-opens. It's also clear that sailings with fully vaccinated passengers will look different than non-vaccinated sailings, at least at first.

Onboard Of course, just like venues on land, there will be new procedures in place on the ship. This will run the gamut from more frequent sanitation to reducing touch points on ships.

Don't be surprised when are fewer deck chairs by the pool and they are spaced farther apart. And crew members will wear masks while on duty. Also expect cruise lines to ask passengers to wear masks when distancing isn't an option (such as elevators) if on an unvaccinated cruise.

Note that these rules are relaxed if 95% of passengers on the ship are vaccinated. In that case, masks and distancing are optional for the cruise lines. As well, there will be areas reserved only for vaccinated passengers if sailing on a ship that's under the 95% threshold.

Check-In At check-in, it's likely that the procedures put in place during the outbreak will stick around for months or years to come.

That means you can expect things like temperature checks before boarding. As well, there will be health questionnaires with a heavy emphasis on symptoms of COVID-19.

Check-in is going to move more online to reduce the interaction and crowds in the terminal. Also, expect staggered boarding to spread out the number of passengers entering the terminal at any one time.

One other item that's going to be in place according to the CDC framework is mandatory COVID tests for passengers before they board if unvaccinated (this doesn't apply to vaccinated cruise passengers). Another test is required by the CDC for unvaccinated passengers at debarkation on cruises longer than four days.

Vaccines Will a shot be required to sail from the United States? That will be up to the specific cruise line. Some lines like Norwegian Cruise Line have already said they will require all passengers have the shot. Carnival is opting for sailings with 95% of passengers having the shot, but granting a small amount of exemptions.

Royal Caribbean requires the shot on many cruises for those eligible, but kids can still sail without (but will need testing and different rules).

Then there is Florida. The state doesn't allow businesses to require proof of the shot. Instead, lines are encouraging passengers to be vaccinated and implementing charges for testing and travel insurance if not.

The best idea is to go ahead and get vaccinated if you want to cruise. This way you can sail on any line and not see potential extra charges or restricted access on the ship.

Slow Resumption of Sailings As cruises do resume, it's not that there will be no cruises and the next day you'll see a full schedule of sailings.

“I think initially we will come out operating smaller than we did than before we went into this," said Carnival CEO Arnold Donald . "That’s because there won’t be some light switch. Every destination won’t open simultaneously."

What's happening is exactly that. As cruises resume, they are doing so slowly. Only some ships resume service while others are prepared for ready as cruise lines show that they can handle sailing in the new COVID-19 world.

No matter when the cruise lines resume sailing, or the changes made, it's clear that getting back to normal is going to take some time unless everyone has the shot.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, royal caribbean drops more vaccine rules and will accept self tests, carnival drops vaccine requirement to sail (and testing for vaccinated passengers), royal caribbean drops vaccine rules… but only for these ports, carnival drops testing requirement on cruises under 6 days, cruise without the vaccine: lines you can sail without the shot, first cruise line in the u.s. drops testing requirement to sail.

Will you have to be tested if you can prove that you’ve been vaccinated for Covid or have had anti Body test.

No one knows for certain just yet, but it seems likely the answer will be yes. Even with a vaccine there is still a chance you can get the virus.

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The Best Gift Ever for People That Love Cruises? This Might Be it…

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BOLDER THE WORLD OVER

Odyssey of the seas.

Discover adventure from Georgetown to Santorini onboard Odyssey of the Seas℠.

It’s time to see how far adventure can take you. Introducing the first Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship to sail in the U.S – Odyssey of the Seas℠. Enjoy gravity-defying fun on the RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator. Or bond over bumper cars and roller-skating at the largest SeaPlex® ever. Scope out incredible 360-degree views from 300 feet up in the North Star® observation capsule. And experience edge-of-your-seat entertainment at the transformative Two70®. Take adventure to the next level on this Quantum Ultra Class favorite.

Turn Wanderlust Into Reality

Book your next vacation onboard Odyssey of the Seas®.

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GO ALL IN ON ADVENTURE

There’s never been a cruise ship that maxes out memory making like Odyssey of the Seas℠. Whether you’re taming waves on the FlowRider®*, kicking back at the totally reimagined pool deck, savoring bold global flavors onboard, or turning up the party vibes late at night — you’ll never run out of things to do onboard Odyssey of the Seas℠. 

A TOP DECK TAKEOVER

At SeaPlex®, fire up a friendly rivalry with bumper cars, glow-in-the-dark laser tag and an arcade offering everything from classic games to Virtual Adventure Zone experiences. Catch a wave on the FlowRider®* surf simulator. Or fall into some gravity defying fun on the RipCord®by iFLY® simulator.   

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

YOU’RE IN FOR A WORLD OF YUM

Savor authentic trattoria fare with a twist at Giovanni's℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. Enjoy gameday classics at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade. Crush cravings for Mexican street food poolside at El Loco Fresh®. And sample Far East favorites at Teppanyaki. Odyssey of the Seas℠ is primed to please every palate and satisfy any appetite.        

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

ADVENTURES AFTER DARK

Keep the thrills going long after sundown with next-level ways to live it up on Odyssey of the Seas℠. Think groundbreaking multimedia spectaculars at the all-immersive entertainment space, Two70®, rockin’ live performances at the Music Hall, and many more soon-to-be revealed surprises — so stay tuned.

EXPLORE BARS & NIGHTLIFE

GO TROPIC TREKKING OR EURO TOURING

Sailing from sunny Fort Lauderdale , Odyssey of the Seas℠ unlocks captivating shores across eastern, western and southern Caribbean isles like Jamaica , exotic Aruba and Perfect Day at CocoCay . This Quantum Ultra Class ship also sails from Rome  to give you a whole new way to experience cruising.

YOUR ONE STOP TO ISLAND HOP

Sail from Fort Lauderdale  to the western  Caribbean  where Beachside meets mountainside. Discover the shores of Labadee, or enjoy the stunning beaches in Falmouth. Head south to admire divi divi trees on Aruba's white-sand beaches and dive Curaçao's colorful coral reefs. In between iconic isles, fill a day with thrills and chill at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

MED MARVELS SET TO MAX

This is a whole new perspective on some of Europe ’s most legendary shores. Scope out Santorini’s seaside cliffs from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star℠. Or gaze at crystal blue Mediterranean waters through the panoramic two-story windows in Two70 on your way to Ephesus , Athens, Mykonos and more.

EXPLORE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Onboard the region’s first-ever Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship.

When it comes to amazing family vacations, Odyssey of the Seas checks all the boxes. The ship offers all kinds of complimentary adventures for kids and adults — from tide-taming on the FlowRider®* and simulated skydiving on RipCord® by iFly®, to bumper cars and glow-in-the-dark laser tag in the largest SeaPlex® ever. And those are just some of the top things to do onboard.

You’ll also find delicious dining to please even the pickiest eaters and crave-worthy cocktails that always raise the bar. When the sun goes down, grown-ups have plenty of ways to light up the night with spirited sing-alongs at Schooner Bar, late-night jam sessions at Music Hall, and immersive, tech-infused entertainment at the transformative Two70®.

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What Happens When Your Cruise Ship Can’t Sail?

The Alaska cruise season from Vancouver has launched, but one ship was left at the starting gate.

Royal Caribbean International cancelled the April 26 sailing of Radiance of the Seas after 1,900 passengers had already boarded. The company announced after a day of trying to fix a propulsion issue that the cruise was no longer going ahead and everyone had to go home. “As you are aware, our teams have been vigorously working to have the Radiance of the Seas prepared to set sail on our shortened April 26, 2024 sailing,” Royal Caribbean said in a letter sent to guests onboard. “Despite our best efforts, circumstances beyond our control have delayed our sailing further. As a result, we’ll regrettably have to cancel our cruise,” the company added. The ship built in 2001 had been having issues with its population system which slowed its speed and made it unable to visit the scheduled ports of call during its previous sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver.

A sister ship Brilliance of the Seas , which is also more than 20 years old, also had technical issues that shortened two cruises in the South Pacific in march and led to a cancellaion of its March 30 sailing. In both cases, Royal Caribbean tried to make good for all expenses to affected passengers, and apologized for the significant inconvenience. “We understand the disappointment due to this unfortunate turn of events. We truly extend our sincerest apologies for the continued unforeseen disruption to your vacation,” Royal Caribbean said in its letter to Vancouver guests.

Guests who booked flights or transfers through Royal Caribbean International had their arrangements automatically rescheduled, the company said. Royal Caribbean also promised to assist passengers with independent hotel arrangements through a section of its mobile app.

Affected guests will receive a 100 per cent refund, in addition to a Future Cruise Credit of the amount they paid for the cruise fare, which can be used for a new booking.

The company also provided free internet for guests to plan their onward travel and kept its bars open while passengers were disembarking. Royal Caribbean will reimburse any travel change fees up to $250 for domestic travel and $400 for international travel, the statement added. The company also stated that they will reimburse up to $250 for hotel costs per stateroom, per night, for two nights as guests make their way home.

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I've been on 50 cruises. Here are 5 things I wish I'd known before sailing in the Mediterranean.

• I've been on 50 cruises around the world and took my first Mediterranean route last year.
• Picking the right time of the season to go can make a big difference in your trip.
• Before packing, I always check to see if any of the experiences I've booked have a dress code.

As someone who's taken over 50 cruises all over the world, I know firsthand how popular cruising is this year. But one seabound itinerary people often forget to add to their bucket lists is a Mediterranean cruise .

The dreamy ships take passengers around European destinations like Spain, France, Italy, and Greece.

After taking my first Mediterranean cruise last year, here's what I think everyone should know before booking the route.

Going early or late in the sailing season means fewer crowds and better weather.

Many cruise lines, like Virgin, Celebrity, and Disney, start the Mediterranean season in early spring and sail through early fall.

Going early or late in the season usually means you'll have more tolerable weather and smaller crowds in some of the big destinations like Athens .

I made the mistake of going on my Mediterranean cruise at the end of May (over Memorial Day weekend).

Some ports of call, like Nice, France, were easy to get around, but others like Rome were packed to the gills. I wanted the day to end before we even made it to the Vatican on our tour.

Arriving at your embarkation port early is key to having a smooth sailing.

My biggest tip for any cruise — but especially for Americans traveling to Europe for a Mediterranean cruise — is to arrive at your embarkation city at least a day before your sailing starts.

This gives you plenty of time to ensure you make it to the port, especially with the airline delays that typically spike in the summer. The boat isn't going to wait for you i f you don't land on time

Even though it means paying for lodging and likely a few meals before boarding the boat, getting a good night's sleep before a jam-packed vacation is worth it to me.

As a bonus, arriving early also gives you a chance to explore the city.

Be sure to pack at least one shirt with sleeves and bottoms that cover your knees.

Some of the major European tourist destinations have strict dress codes — typically everyone must at least cover their shoulders and knees out of respect.

If you're planning on checking out Vatican Ci t y in Italy or the Meteora monasteries in Greece, b e sure to pack at least one outfit that fits the bill.

Most cruise ships have laundry services (self-serve or valet), so you can wear the same dress-code-approved outfit for a few excursion days if needed.

Food tours are a great way to see a city, taste local dishes, and learn some history.

If you're looking for a unique excursion that still gives you the highlights of a European city, I recommend booking a food tour . I've done tours in places like Amsterdam, Budapest, and Paris, and I've never been disappointed.

Food tours can be booked through third-party travel operators, like TripAdvisor or Viator, and offer the chance to see some of the major landmarks of a city, try local dishes, and learn some history all in one outing.

The tours are usually led by locals, which means the guides can also give you some good recommendations if you have time before you need to return to the ship.