european river cruise covid restrictions

What It’s Like to Take a River Cruise Through Europe Right Now

With covid rules and restrictions varying by country, crossing the border by boat has its own new challenges—but there are some advantages, too..

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The German town of Rüdesheim, which sits on the Rhine River and is known for its wine production

Photo by Nick Zastenski/Shutterstock

At the end of August, I hopped in a car to take a plane from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to Amsterdam. My mission, from there: a Rhine River cruise, traveling from the Netherlands to Germany, then France, Germany (again), before ending in Switzerland. My vessel? The new-as-of-2021 AmaSiena , a 156-passenger ship from AmaWaterways that—at just 38 feet wide and 443 feet long—would carry me and 102 other passengers through Europe, stopping in seven cities along the way.

Though this had a typical cruise schedule, it wasn’t a typical cruise. For one, as of August 4, AmaWaterways required all guests to be vaccinated, and the ship was capped at 75 percent capacity. In between new sailings, the crew spent four hours deep cleaning cabins and common areas, and a fogging system is deployed to sanitize surfaces. Temperatures were to be taken before boarding and at breakfast. All guests were required to be masked unless seated and dining, and all staff wore masks and manned sanitizing stations that flanked all entry and exit points of the ship. Gone was buffet dining, and the gym—which normally could fit eight for workouts—was limited to two people. Dancing? Forbidden. Says Kristin Karst, executive vice president and cofounder of AmaWaterways: “Things have changed since the Delta variant. But these protocols are better for everyone, and safer for everyone.”

Off the ship, things were different, too. We were to pass through several European countries, each with its own entry and exit and quarantine requirements. What would it be like on the ground—and what would crossing borders be like? My anxiety over what I needed to produce was quickly eased: Before arrival in each new country, AmaWaterways staff would brief us on what was required in each destination and share links to paperwork to complete (and in some cases, physical documents).

Although I had never been on a river cruise before, I quickly saw the appeal: Your food—all you can eat, served by crisply dressed waiters—was steps away from your room, your room steps away from the ship’s sun deck, and the deck mere steps away from a destination, when docked. It was a floating hotel, in a sense, and after more than a year of no traveling, this slow return not only felt fitting, but also kind of the point.

For those planning or thinking about a European river cruise, here are some details about what to expect.

In the Netherlands

Before I even got to the ship, to fly to the Netherlands, I needed to produce either a negative COVID test or vaccine card, as was required by the Dutch government. (Ever the overpreparer, at the airport, I produced both with a flourish.) I also had to complete a health declaration form for the Netherlands, which confirmed I had no COVID symptoms. But once I landed, I was through customs and baggage claim faster than you could say tot ziens (goodbye): It was off to the port to drop off my bags and meet my brother, who is based in Brussels and was joining me for the trip. “Get ready,” he told me, when I called to let him know I’d arrived. “No one here is wearing masks.”

He was not exaggerating. I can count on one hand the number of people I saw wearing masks outside in Amsterdam, and inside, the numbers were about the same. He and I both wore masks when we entered a shop, but it was not mandatory, nor were we asked to produce any sort of vaccination proof. (Chalk it up to vaccination rates: Roughly 83 percent of Dutch people have had at least one dose of a vaccine, and the country has one of the highest vaccination rates in the European Union.) We were a little wary, but it did not take long for us to settle into our what-we-always-do-in-Amsterdam routine, given that our parents own a small caravan outside of the city: sit by the canal, drink beer, and eat bitterballen , or Dutch meatballs.

Hours later, back on the ship, we nodded “nice to meet yous” at our fellow socially distanced travelers and took our masks off, briefly, to dine at the Chef’s Table, a tasting menu with three appetizers, three main courses, and three desserts. I felt uneasy, despite the distancing and sanitization and knowledge that everyone was vaccinated. In the morning, we would sail to Germany.

Netherlands travel rules: At press time, to visit the Netherlands, vaccinated travelers will need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test performed within 24 hours prior to departure for the Netherlands. (Children under 12 are exempt.) Unvaccinated travelers are prohibited from entering the Netherlands for nonessential or leisure travel purposes. Read more about entry requirements for travel to the Netherlands.

Our first sail day was sunny, but the threat of paperwork loomed: Prior to arrival in Germany on days two, three, and five of sailing—where we would be visiting the towns of Köln, Rüdesheim, and Breisach—I needed to complete the digital registration form , which asked for the countries I’d visited in the last 14 days, the address where I’d be staying, and whether or not I had proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. I uploaded my proof of vaccination, and then received a QR code that I could show to officials in case anyone asked. In total, it was a 20-minute process—not bad, all told, though I did complete it twice for fear of being hit with a 25,000-euro fine . Once finished, I headed to the sun deck on top of the ship, which had a walking track, swim-up pool, and deck chairs. A waiter handed out mimosas, and as we nosed toward Germany and left the Netherlands behind, city gave way to green pastures and grazing sheep. My brother and I spent those first few hours sailing there, just sitting. I could practically feel some of the COVID travel anxiety melting away.

The next day, out on land in Germany, I did not encounter anyone who asked for proof of my digital entry form. What everyone in restaurants and bars—even outdoors— did ask for, without fail: name, email, address, and phone number for contact tracing purposes. After a few rounds of completing paperwork by hand, I did as the Germans do and downloaded the Luca app , which functions as a de facto digital guest list for restaurants. Just scan the QR code to check in, and swipe in the app to check out, creating a record of where you were—and for how long—in the event the info is needed for contact tracing purposes.

Unlike in Amsterdam, masks were prevalent in Germany. (Our tour guides in Köln and Breisach told us they were required to wear them, even outdoors.) Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test was required for indoor dining, and other than a few second glances at the dates I had received vaccines—Germans enter the day, month, and year rather than the month, day, and year—I had no issues presenting my CDC card as proof. The more time I spent out and about in Germany, the more it felt like a homecoming: My brother and I grew up in Germany and had traveled to Köln and Rüdesheim countless times, but it had been years since we’d returned. Back to Germany, back to travel.

Germany travel rules: At press time, Germany is no longer allowing unvaccinated Americans to enter for leisure travel after removing the United States from its list of unrestricted countries. Those arriving from countries that are not on the list must either be vaccinated or be traveling for an essential reason (such as an approved work purpose). For proof of vaccination, it must have been at least 14 days since the last vaccine dose was administered, and travelers must have a physical copy of their vaccine certificate. A digital photo of a card will not be accepted. Read more about entry requirements for travel to Germany.

Before arriving in Strasbourg, France, I was required to complete a statement of honor , in which I verified I did not have COVID or any symptoms. (I printed two copies and carried the paperwork with me, though I was never asked to show it.) And though we were just two miles from the German border, the rules were different: You were not allowed entry into a restaurant or bar—even if you were sitting outdoors—without showing proof of a negative COVID test or physical vaccine card. There was a bit of whiplash: In Germany, mere hours earlier, we had been allowed to sit outside as long as we submitted information for contact tracing—nothing else.

Still, as it had in the Netherlands and Germany, this requirement quickly became a routine we adjusted to: We sat for an espresso in the sun near the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, flashing our vaccine cards before ordering. We walked toward the Petite-France neighborhood to eat outdoors at La Fignette, an Alsatian restaurant specializing in tarte flambée (or flammkuchen , in German). We drank more beer on a boat moored on the river, before returning to our own ship to set sail, once again.

France travel rules: At press time, vaccinated travelers from the United States can enter France with no additional requirements other than submitting the health declaration form . Unvaccinated U.S. travelers are no longer allowed to travel to France unless they have a pressing or compelling reason, such as being an EU citizen or resident, for an essential work purpose, or for studies. Read more about the rules for travel to France.

In Switzerland

From France, we traveled back into Germany for a foray into the Black Forest, so it was another change—a return to contact tracing, but otherwise, all existing documentation held up. After that, we sailed to the Swiss town of Basel, where we disembarked. Once there, I ended my journey much the same way I had begun it a week ago: a car to a train to a plane.

Switzerland travel rules: At press time, as of September 20, travelers aged over 16 entering Switzerland who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered from COVID-19 will have to present a negative test result (PCR or antigen) and be tested again after four to seven days. (Testing is not required for travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery.) Read more about the rules for travel to Switzerland.

Key tips for taking a European river cruise right now

Regardless of how you travel, be sure to take a photo of your vaccine card and carry the physical copy with you when you go out, as well as any health declaration forms. Research countries and respective contact tracing apps, and download them prior to arrival in order to expedite your entry and exit into bars, restaurants, and other venues.

>> Next: These Countries Are Open to Vaccinated Travelers

Travel Alert Advisory

• TRAVEL ADVISORY
• HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS
• TRAVEL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
• TRAVEL WAIVER PLUS
• PEACE OF MIND

Travel Entry Requirements

For river cruises in 2023 and 2024, AmaWaterways is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination to board our ships. All guests traveling with AmaWaterways remain responsible for ensuring they meet the travel entry requirements for each country they plan to visit before, during or after their river cruise. These requirements, as mandated by airlines and individual countries or regions , may change without notice and cancellation fees will apply should guests no longer meet the country entry requirements for their cruise or land program.

Itinerary Requirements Summary:

• For Tulip Time and Best of Holland & Belgium cruises : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter any of the countries along these itineraries.
• For Rhine, Main and Moselle Cruises : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter any of the countries along these itineraries.
• For Upper Danube Cruises (between Hungary and Germany) : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter any of the countries along these itineraries.
• For Lower Danube Cruises (between Hungary and Romania) : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter any of the countries along these itineraries.
• For cruises in Portugal and Spain : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter any of the countries along these itineraries.
• For cruises in Portugal only: guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter Portugal.
• For cruises in France : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter France.
• For cruises in Egypt : guests are not required to present proof of vaccination to enter Egypt.

*European Medicine Agency (EMA): double doses - BioNTech/Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Covishield, Covaxin, Covovax, Moderna, Nuvaxovid (Novavax). Johnson & Johnson (single dose).

**For guests with a non-EMA Covid-19 vaccine please ensure the validity of your vaccine(s) with all countries you will be visiting.

***To cruise with AmaWaterways, children 4 years of age need a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of embarkation.

For all cruises after October 1, 2022, AmaWaterways guests will need to meet the following vaccination requirements:

• Fully Vaccinated
• Or Negative Antigen or PCR test 48 hours prior to embarkation
• Or a Covid recovery letter not older than 60 days

This also applies to accompanied minors. Guest will be required to show proof of one of the above criteria prior to embarkation or the start of their land package with AmaWaterways. The criteria for being considered "fully vaccinated" may differ from country to country and can impact your travel.

• View Requirements by Country Austria (Entry Airport: Vienna) Belgium (Entry Airport: Brussels (BRU)) Botswana (Entry Airport: Kasane (BBK)) Bulgaria Cambodia (Entry Airport: Siem Reap) Croatia Czech Republic (Entry Airport: Prague) Egypt (Entry Airport: Cairo) France (Entry Airport: Paris / Bordeaux/ Lyon / Marseille) Germany (Entry Airport: Munich / Frankfurt) Hungary (Entry Airport: Budapest) Israel (Entry Airport: Tel Aviv) Italy (Entry Airport: Milan Linate (LIN)) Jordan (Entry Airport: Amman) Kenya (Entry Airport: Nairobi (NBO)) Luxembourg (Entry Airport: Luxembourg (LUX)) Namibia The Netherlands (Entry Airport: Amsterdam) Portugal (Entry Airport: Porto / Lisbon) Romania (Entry Airport: Bucharest) Serbia Rwanda Slovakia South Africa (Entry Airport: Cape Town (CPT)/Johannesburg or Tambo (JNB)) Spain (Entry Airport: Madrid / Barcelona / Bilbao (BIO)) Switzerland (Entry Airport: (BSL) / Zurich (ZRH) / Geneva (GVA)) Tanzania Thailand (Entry Airport: Bangkok (BKK)) Turkey (Entry Airport: Istanbul) United Arab Emirates (Entry Airport: Dubai) Vietnam (Entry Airport: Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City) Zambia Zimbabwe (Entry Airport: Victoria Falls (VFL))
• View Requirements by Itinerary Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

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Viking Health & Safety Program

Your health and wellbeing are always our top priority. As the world’s leading exploration company, Viking takes you closer to the heart of the places you want to visit. For more than 25 years, we have always had the highest standards for health and cleanliness.

Travel Protection Plan

As you prepare for your upcoming voyage, we recommend you consider purchasing a Travel Protection Plan, which covers unforeseen circumstances that may arise before or during your trip, including any necessary medical, quarantine or repatriation expenses related to any illness.

Viking offers a Travel Protection Plan, administered by Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand. Plan details can be found here .

As you prepare for your journey, we encourage you to prioritize your health and the health of those around you. Although not required, Viking recommends that you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines ahead of your departure and as recommended by your healthcare provider.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers comprehensive guidelines to ensure you are protected from contracting and spreading contagious diseases to your fellow travelers, your ship’s crew and the communities you will visit along your voyage.

Travel Requirements

As your trip nears, ensure you understand the travel requirements for countries along your voyage.

Some countries require vaccinations to visit. Be sure you are aware and have planned for all relevant vaccine requirements.

Small Ships

Our Switzerland-registered river vessels host just 190 or fewer guests; our fleet of Norwegian-registered all-veranda ocean ships and all-Nordic Balcony expedition ships host only 930 guests and 378-guests, respectively. And with no interior staterooms on any of our ships, guests enjoy expansive views from outside staterooms.

Purified Air

Enjoy fresh air in your stateroom, knowing that all staterooms on Viking ocean, river and expedition ships feature independent air handling units that do not share air with other areas of the ship. Take comfort in knowing that the air in the public areas of your ship has also been purified with high-density filters, which kill 99% of all airborne viruses and bacteria.

Medical Services

While every precaution can reduce the risk of illness, we are also prepared for that outcome. Our ocean and expedition vessels and the Viking Mississippi have state-of-the-art Medical Centers. While onboard our other river vessels, guests can seek medical guidance via a 24/7 hotline staffed by doctors ashore that can be accessed through the ship’s dedicated online portal or by phone.

Housekeeping

Rest assured that the surfaces on your ship will be cleaned and sanitized continuously with daily scheduled deep cleanings.

Dining & Entertainment

On your ship, you can expect spacious, airy public areas and abundant options for al fresco dining. Also, on our ocean and expedition voyages, as always, you can enjoy complimentary 24-hour room service. Should you choose to do so, the ship is equipped with capabilities that allow you to watch live events and enriching content through your in-room entertainment system.

Spa & Fitness

On ocean and expedition voyages, The Spa and Fitness Center undergo rigorous cleaning and frequent sanitization.

Local Partner Training

As part of the Viking Health & Safety Program, we regularly train our local partners, including motor coach drivers and tour guides. While ashore, Viking’s measures will always meet or exceed local guidelines.

Viking Health & Safety Program – Updated November 1, 2023

The information included here should be considered current for all guests. Specific protocols and procedures may evolve over time to adapt to various conditions or travel regulations in the destinations in which we operate. Please continue to check this site for the most up-to-date version of the Viking Health & Safety Program.

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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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• Travel Updates

Travel Updates will keep you informed on the operating status of tours or cruises by destination, and provide up-to-date information on our travel policies.

• Tour and Cruise Status
• Travel Policy Updates

We continue to make every effort to provide the most up-to-date information on the status of your tour or cruise. However, please know that as we share the below updates, we recognize there are events outside our control that we cannot predict or prevent. While access to certain destinations and itinerary elements may evolve over time, what won't change is our commitment to do everything possible to deliver the quality experience and peace of mind you expect when traveling with Tauck. We hope you share a spirit of adventure with us.

(May 2, 2024) As reported in the media, the tragic conflict in Gaza continues. As a result of the on-going hostilities in the region, Tauck has made the following decisions:

• Israel and Jordan - All departures scheduled through December, 2024 have been cancelled.
• Jerusalem, The Red Sea & Petra - All departures have been cancelled for 2024 and 2025.

Our Global Response Team continues to actively monitor world events on an on-going basis, consulting with our vast network of outside agencies, supplier partners, and other industry contacts to stay abreast of circumstances in all areas where we operate. As always, the health and wellbeing of our guests, employees, and partners are our highest priorities.

Travel Policy Updates For Our Guests

Health & Safety Policy for 2024

For 2024 tours and cruises, Tauck has no remaining Covid requirements. There is no vaccination requirement or travel pledge to be signed. This 2024 policy could change if there is a surge in infection rates or other factors that could impact the safety of our guests and employees. 

Final Payment & Tour Cancellation Policy

FINAL PAYMENT

For all land tours, final payment is due 60 days before trip departure and 120 days for river cruises, small ship cruises and rail journeys.

TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY

If you have to cancel your trip, regardless of reason, cancellation of confirmed bookings results in costly penalties and fees from hotels, ship operators and other travel providers. Applicable fees are tour specific and dependent on the timing before your trip's departure. Please refer to your specific tour or to the applicable General Information page for details: https://www.tauck.com/guest-travel/general-information  

If you have purchased Tauck's Guest, Cruise or Train Protection plans and cancel your trip, you can find detailed information at: http://www.tauck.com/guest-travel/travel-protection

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An agency of the European Union

COVID-19: EU guidance for cruise ship operations

The objective of this guidance is to facilitate the re-start of operations of cruise ships in the EU, by recommending minimum measures expected to be implemented by all those concerned, while maintaining general safety and security standards. This Guidance is meant for EU/EEA flagged ships engaged in international voyages and for ships calling at an EU/EEA port irrespective of flag. Note: COVID-19 can be transmitted through close contact with infected persons and/or with surfaces or objects that have been contaminated by the secretions of infected persons. Any activity or situation that involves the gathering together of people poses a risk for the transmission of infection. Thus, all forms of transport that bring people into close proximity, particularly in closed/indoor spaces, pose an increased risk for transmission. Such forms of transport include buses, trains, airplanes and ships. Measures advised include to maintain appropriate physical distancing and avoidance of contact with contaminated surfaces, together with strict hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette. Hygiene will decrease the risk of transmission, but some risk will remain.

Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 - first update

This technical guidance aims to provide guidelines to laboratories and relevant stakeholders in the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and other countries in the WHO European region in making decisions on establishing sequencing capacities and capabilities, in making decisions on which technologies to use and/or in deciding on the role of sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics, research, outbreak investigations and surveillance.

Guidance for COVID-19 quarantine and testing of travellers

This document provides guidance based on scientific evidence regarding quarantine and testing of travellers in EU/EEA countries in the context of the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs).

Risk assessment

Rapid Risk Assessment: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the EU/EEA and the UK – tenth update

Since 31 December 2019 and as of 9 June 2020, 7 069 278 cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide, including 405 587 deaths. EU/EEA countries and the UK reported 1 444 710 cases (20% of all cases), including 169 207 deaths (42% of all deaths).

Latest ECDC risk assessment

Latest risk assessments on covid-19.

ECDC risk assessments aim at supporting the EU/EEA countries and the European Commission in their preparedness and response to a public health threat.

Publication data

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Infographic: COVID-19 and cruise ship operations

This infographic provides guidance based on the joint ECDC-EMSA guidance on cruise ship operations in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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See all information on COVID-19, situation updates, risk assessments, questions and answers, latest evidence, surveillance and laboratory guidance and how to protect yourself and others.

Surveillance and disease data on COVID-19

Overview of all the data available on the COVID-19 pandemic, including the The European Respiratory Virus Surveillance Summary (ERVISS) and variants of concern.

TRAVEL INFORMATION for unexpected changes

WHAT TO KNOW DURING THIS TIME

Paris Olympics Travel Advisory (Updated March 21, 2024)

PLEASE NOTE: The 2024 Olympic Games will take place in the heart of Paris this summer, transforming the region to accommodate Olympic events and spectators. We have cancelled those cruises that would be most affected by the Olympic Games. For our remaining summer Paris cruises (for the Paris & Normandy , A Portrait of Majestic France , Grand France , and Ultimate France itineraries), operating between June and September 2024, guests may experience modifications to the published itinerary.

Israel Travel Alert (Updated April 17, 2024)

We are deeply saddened by the ongoing situation in Israel and Gaza. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone in the affected areas.

The well-being of our guests and team members is always our top priority. With this in mind, we monitor world events very closely and make operational decisions based on informed advice from a number of sources.

Our Jerusalem post-cruise extensions departing through May 31, 2024 have been suspended. Guests booked on these affected extensions will be contacted directly by the Uniworld team.

We will continue to monitor and provide updates if any further changes are required.

How we handle the unexpected

While travel is a wonderful way to see the world, learn about other cultures and relax, it isn’t always without its unexpected surprises—which come from the ebbs and flows of the world as we know it. With that in mind, you can count on the value of Uniworld’s experience and regional knowledge to make sure you enjoy your cruise-tour even when conditions beyond our control occur.

If unexpected conditions occur, we will make decisions that are in the best interest of our guests, our crew and our vessels, and will take the following steps:

We will keep you posted on significant deviations

• During unusually low/high water periods, a special statement will be posted on our Port Locations page to inform you of the river conditions.
• If there is a likelihood that a particular cruise will be significantly impacted, our Port Locations page will be updated with information about that cruise.
• In the case of a significant deviation or full cancellation, you will be notified at the email address you provided at time of booking or on your Passenger Information Form.
• In the case of a significant deviation that becomes necessary after the start of your cruise-tour our onboard/on shore personnel will keep you informed.

We will keep our travel partners, your Travel Advisors, informed

• If you booked your cruise through your Travel Advisor, please keep in contact with them regarding your cruise, as we will be directly in contact with them if there are any cancellations.

We know that your Uniworld cruise is a very special occasion for you and as such, we will always do everything within our power to handle the unexpected and unforeseen in the best way possible.

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