celebrity cruises uk covid testing

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Celebrity Cruises - COVID tests - UK passengers - Cruises Forum

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I’m hoping someone can help me.

We ordered from Medic Spot. The test came and it is a Flow Flex test. Online I have now noticed it needs to be FDA approved (which I am aware licenses food and drugs in the USA). Obviously the test is licensed for use in the UK and I see these specific ones in literally every shop and also they are the ones the UK government use I am sure.

We are concerned that they may not be accepted. However I’m not sure the advice about the FDA approval is because that’s the information specifically for US passengers?

I will phone them up but just wondering if anyone knows.

3 replies to this topic

I have contacted the cruise line and they just repeat back the FDA approved requirement.

How did you get on with the Flex flow? Practically every supervised provider over in the UK seem to use this particular test.

Many thanks.

I wonder whether because a lot of lines seem to be US based/centric, the FDA advice pertains specifically to people from the US needing tests, because as you say, most tests here are Flow Flex.

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Boarding Requirements for COVID-19 or Other Pathogens

Are there any innoculation or vaccination needs for my sailing?

As detailed in our brochure, all guests must ensure that they are medically and physically fit for travel. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) provide guidelines as to which vaccinations are required in each country. In many cases inoculations are recommended but in some circumstances they are required. We recommend that you check with your health care professional or a Travel Medicine Specialist certified by the WHO for guidance. For certain destinations, additional vaccination for COVID-19 or other pathogens may be required.

Other informational resources can be accessed at the Centers for Disease Control  and Prevention's Traveler's Health website or toll free at 1-877-FYI-TRIP, and the World Health Organization website.

Am I required to take a COVID-19 test or be vaccinated prior to embarking on my cruise?

All travelers are welcome to sail regardless of vaccination status and will no longer be required to provide proof of pre-departure testing to board, except for specific sailings where vaccination or testing are required by law.

As destinations around the globe continue to adapt their health and safety protocols, we continually evaluate and update our own requirements as new information becomes available.  If you’re currently booked on a cruise vacation with us and have provided an email address, you will be advised of the latest requirements leading up to departure. Be sure to register your guest account so that we may reach you.

As of August 28, 2023, there are no pre-cruise testing or vaccination requirements needed for the following sailings:

Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Chile, or Back-to-Back sailings visiting Australia, Fiji, Tonga, or Chile

Are there any vaccination, testing, or documentation protocol requirements to board a sailing visiting Australia?

The travel documentation below is still required for the following Australia and New Zealand sailings:

October 1, 2023 Celebrity Solstice from Honolulu to Sydney*

October 19, 2023 Celebrity Solstice from Sydney to Singapore

November 25, 2023 Celebrity Edge from Singapore to Sydney

December 9, 2023 Celebrity Edge roundtrip from Sydney*

December 21, 2023 Celebrity Edge roundtrip from Sydney*

Documentation

For itineraries that have a port of call in Australia and New Zealand, there are 3 documents guests must complete as soon as possible prior to sailing:

To comply with government protocols when sailing to Australia, all guests must self-disclose their vaccination status, as well as read and acknowledge the Health, Travel, and Financial Risks statement. Please ensure you have completed the form Access Here for each member of your traveling party or you may not be permitted to sail.

All guests (except for Australian citizens) must also complete the Australian Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) form Access Here .

*The government of New Zealand requires all guests (excluding Australia and New Zealand citizens) with a port call, embark or debark in New Zealand to submit a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) form prior to boarding the sailing Access Here .

October 1, 2023 Celebrity Solstice guests, please also be advised, guests must check their Visa and ESTA requirements before traveling.

What health screening measures are being taken at the terminal on boarding day?

During check-in, you will be asked to complete a health attestation. If you attest to or show signs of a fever, cough, or fatigue, you will be directed to a secondary screening.

If I am required to be vaccinated for my sailing, what proof of vaccination is accepted?

Guests can furnish proof from the government site, app or photo as proof of vaccination. Laminated Vaccination cards are accepted.

What if I cannot get vaccinated due to a pre-existing allergy? What if I am not vaccinated for religious reasons? What if I have recently recovered from COVID-19 and am not now eligible to be vaccinated?

Vaccination Accommodations Requests

Before requesting a vaccination accommodation, there are several things to keep in mind. As you prepare to submit a request for vaccination accommodation, please:

Submit your request at least 30 days prior to your cruise departure date or even earlier if possible.

Be aware that we may not be able to process requests submitted less than 14 days to sailing.

Be aware that approvals or denials for vaccine accommodation may be issued up to 2 weeks prior to sailing or later.

Wait for a response to your request before booking travel arrangements such as flights and hotel accommodations. Celebrity Cruises will not be responsible for any travel-related expenses incurred by you or members of your traveling party should your request be denied.

How to submit a vaccination accommodation request:

If you believe that you meet the requirements for a vaccination accommodation, please send an email to [email protected]. You can also have your local travel agent or International Representative contact us.

Your initial email to [email protected] should include the following details:

The full name of the person who needs the accommodation, as the name appears on their reservation.

Date of Sailing

Reservation Number

Best phone number to reach the requesting guest (or their legal guardian if they are a minor)

Best email to reach the requesting guest or their guardian, should it be different than the one you are emailing from.

Religious Requests : For religious accommodation, please describe the nature of your sincerely held religious beliefs, religious practice or observance that conflicts with the vaccination requirement.

Medical Requests : For your request to be considered by our medical team, a letter from a physician is required. Please see the specific requirements for the letter below:

The letter must come from a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).

The letter must include the full name and date of birth for the guest requesting the accommodation.

The letter must clearly indicate the pre-existing, non-COVID medical condition or disability that is contraindicated for vaccination.

The letter should include a note that the guest is medically fit to travel.

The letter must be signed by the MD or DO.

Vaccine accommodation requests should be submitted individually and will be considered individually. It may be possible for some members of the same travel party to receive an approval, while others are denied.

Our receipt of your vaccination accommodation request in no way implies or guarantees an approval.

If your vaccination accommodation request is granted

Approvals apply only to the sailing for which they were granted and need to be renewed for each new sailing as protocols and operational needs change frequently. Approvals do not imply or guarantee an approval for any future sailings.

Please note that vaccination accommodated guests must adhere to all health protocols and travel requirements for unvaccinated guests as required by the cruise line and at the local, state and national level.

If your vaccination accommodation request is denied

If we are unable to approve your request, you can:

Change the ship/sail date and submit a new request, if your denial was based on operational capacity.

Cancel only the unvaccinated guest(s) from the booking, if the remainder of the traveling party still wishes to sail. The unvaccinated guest will receive a full refund after cancellation.

Cancel the booking that includes the unvaccinated guest and receive a full refund for the booking. Only those guests in the impacted booking are eligible to receive a full refund. Related bookings (family, friends, etc. traveling on another booking) remain subject to the standard cancellation penalty schedule.

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App, jabs and testing plan as Celebrity Cruises returns to UK

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An app combined with vaccination and testing is being used by Celebrity Cruises in an effort to keep passengers and crew safe ahead of new UK sailings by Celebrity Silhouette from July 3.

Vaccinated passengers will also require proof of a negative PCR test taken 24-72 hours before the time of sailing.

Children aged 3-17 will need to take an antigen test at the terminal prior to embarkation.

The PCR and antigen tests required will be paid for by the line.

Passengers aged 11 and over will be required to wear an appropriate face covering in the terminal and inside venues on the ship, in line with UK government requirements.

All arrivals and departures will be staggered by appointment and travellers will be able to select their preferred check in times.

“These measures will provide guests with a speedier boarding process in a rigorously sanitised and socially distanced environment,” the line said.

Once on board, the Celebrity Cruises’ mobile app will transform the safety drill into a faster, more personal approach that passengers can complete from their cabin.

Dubbed Muster 2.0, key elements of the drill, including where to go in case of an emergency and instructions on how to properly use a life jacket, will be accessible via mobile devices and interactive cabin TVs.

The app can also be used as a digital cabin key and to book dining and shore excursions.

A ‘cruise with confidence’ policy has been introduced should passengers receive a positive Covid test prior to or during their cruise.

A full refund will be given to anyone who tests positive within two weeks of their departure date, including at the port, as well as any members of their immediate travelling party who have been in close contact with them.

People who have booked before July 31 can cancel for any reason up to 48 hours before departure on sailings through to May 4, 2022 and receive a 100% future cruise credit.

The company added: “It is anticipated that guests will be permitted to debark Celebrity Silhouette and explore independently in ports of call where there are no restrictions put in place by port authorities or local government.”

The Scottish government barred MSC Virtousa, ther first ship to start UK coastal crusies, from calling at Greenock for Glasgow earlier this week.

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The latest Covid restrictions for cruise holidays explained, from vaccination to testing

Cruise lines are beginning to drop or ease their covid-related rules for passengers – we look at the regulations among major operators.

Cruise holidays bore the initial brunt of the pandemic travel chaos. The spread of Covid-19 across large vessels made headline news around the world.

It was no surprise then that when they were gradually granted permission to restart operations across much of the world, cruise lines enforced strict new procedures. These included requirements for full vaccination, regular testing, mask wearing and social distancing.

Now, as tens of countries have dropped all Covid-related entry rules, cruise companies are becoming more lenient. Alongside the requirements of each cruise line, passengers should keep in mind entry stipulations of the countries to which they are travelling. Visit gov.uk to see information on the rules for each country. Your cruise line should provide information when booking, and in the run-up to, a voyage. Here are the top line requirements of major cruise lines.

Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador continues its policy of requiring all guests to be fully vaccinated and stipulates that this includes two doses, plus a booster dose, for over-18s. Children aged 12-17 must have received two doses, but children aged 0-11 do not need to be vaccinated to travel with Ambassador. A Covid-19 test is also required before departure for guests aged five and over. Ambassador offers home testing kits. See more information .

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival eased rules on 6 September. Passengers on cruises of more than 16 nights or which sail to Australia, Bermuda, Canada or Greece must be fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated passengers are permitted on all other voyages, they must, however, have tested negative for Covid-19 no more than 72 hours before boarding and be ready to present proof of the result. See more information .

Celebrity Cruises

Passengers can sail with Celebrity, regardless of their vaccination status, on cruises departing from European and US ports. Vaccinations rules still apply for voyages to Canada and Bermuda. Fully vaccinated passengers do not need to test before or during their cruise if the cruise is for nine nights or fewer; they have three days prior to departure to test for sailings of 10 days or more. Unvaccinated guests aged five or over will need to take a test within the three days before boarding US sailings; the same rule applies for unvaccinated guests aged 12 or over for some European sailings. See more information .

Passengers aged 18 and over must be fully vaccinated to sail with Cunard. For most people, full vaccination will require a booster dose as they will not be considered fully vaccinated if the final dose was received more than 270 days since the last day of the cruise. The most recent dose must have been received at least seven days before travel. Guests aged 17 or under are not required to be fully vaccinated.

However, if those aged five to 17 are not fully vaccinated, they must take a Covid-19 lateral flow or PCR test within the three days before travel. Vaccination and testing requirements do not apply to children under five. These are the rules for standard voyages, but some come with additional requirements. See more information.

Disney Cruise Line

All passengers aged 12 or over are required to be fully vaccinated for sailings departing from the US, Canada and Puerto Rico. From 23 September, fully vaccinated passengers on US sailings on board Disney Wonder, Dream, Fantasy and Wish will no longer be required to take a test before departure. Unvaccinated passengers aged 11 and younger will need to take a NAAT or PCR Covid-19 test one to three days before departure. See more information .

Holland America

As of 6 September, guests do not need to be fully vaccinated for cruises under 16 days, that do not visit Bermuda, Canada or Australia. However, guests of cruises of 16 days or more must be fully vaccinated. Passengers who are not full vaccinated must take a test within 72 hours prior to departure. All passengers are required to take a pre-cruise test for sailings of 16 days or more. See more information .

Royal Caribbean

The rules differ depending on where you are taking a cruise. As of 5 September, unvaccinated guests are welcome on all Royal Caribbean sailings, except for those to and from Australia, Canada, Bermuda or Singapore. Guests on remaining transatlantic sailings in 2022 will need to be fully vaccinated. To meet Royal Caribbean’s requirements, fully vaccinated means two doses of an approved vaccine received at least 28 days apart with the second dose administered at least 14 days before departure.

Fully vaccinated guests do not need to have a Covid-19 test before boarding. Those who are unvaccinated must provide a negative Covid-19 test result. See more information .

P&O Cruises

All guests aged 18 or over must be fully vaccinated, including a booster if the second dose was received more than 270 days before the last day of the cruise. Pre-departure testing is no longer a requirement for fully vaccinated guests but is still recommended.

Guests aged 17 and under do not need to be fully vaccinated to sail with P&O Cruises. Unvaccinated guests aged five to 17 must take a test within the three days before, or on the day of, departure. A test certificate is no longer required, but you may be asked to show photo evidence of your negative test. Children aged four and under are exempt from all vaccination and testing requirements. See more information .

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises now permits unvaccinated passengers to sail on its ships except on cruises of 16 days or more or on those where local regulations prohibit it; voyages where unvaccinated guests are not permitted include those to Australia, Canada and Greece. Unvaccinated passengers aged two or over must provide a negative test result from a test taken no more than three days before embarkation where they are permitted to join a cruise. See more information .

Marella Cruises

Guests aged 12 or over must be fully vaccinated to sail with Marella. Those aged 18 or over who received the second dose of a vaccine more than 270 days ago must have had their booster to be considered fully vaccinated. Testing requirements may apply, but vary depending on the cruise. See more information .

MSC Cruises

UK passengers aged 18 or over boarding MSC Cruises (and 12 or over for cruises departing from the US) must be fully vaccinated or recovered from Covid-19, and all guests aged two or older must submit a negative Covid-19 test result prior to boarding. See more information .

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Oceania has eased its requirements and, since 3 September, passengers do not need to show proof of vaccination for sailings from most ports. Additionally, fully vaccinated guests and under-12s do not need to take a Covid-19 test before departure. Unvaccinated passengers aged 12 or over must take a pre-cruise test. See more information .

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line updated its vaccination requirements on 3 September. All guests are permitted on its cruises, regardless of vaccination status. However, passengers may be affected by the travel requirements of individual countries. Unvaccinated guests aged 12 or over are required to show proof of a medically supervised negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours before embarkation. Children aged 11 or under are not required to show proof of a negative test. See more information .

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas relaxed its rules on 3 September and unvaccinated guests may now sail with proof of a negative test. Fully vaccinated guests aged 12 or over and all guests aged 11 or under do not need a pre-departure test. These rules are subject to local restrictions. See more information .

Viking requires all guests to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 at least 14 days before travel; this requires a full vaccine course, although a booster is recommended before departure. A Covid-19 test is recommended before departure for all voyages; on some in the US and Canada it is required. See more information .

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages requires 90 per cent of its guests to be vaccinated and leaves 10 per cent of its space open for unvaccinated guests. Unvaccinated guests must apply for a vaccine exemption to sail on the ship. The cruise line’s sailings are all adults-only. See more information .

All guests aged 18 or over on sailings up until 31 December 2022 must be fully vaccinated to travel with Uniworld. Unvaccinated passengers aged 17 or under are also permitted, but for sailings in 2022 they must provide a negative PCR or antigen test result taken within 72 hours of departure. Vaccine and testing rules will be dropped in 2023. See more information .

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Do You Need to Be Vaccinated to Cruise? It Depends on the Ship and Destination

While most cruise lines have scrapped covid vaccine and testing requirements, some companies and international cruise ports still have vaccination and testing rules in place..

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If you’re planning on sailing with Viking anytime soon, you’d better track down that COVID-19 vaccine certificate.

Courtesy of Viking

When cruising restarted in spring 2021, after a nearly 15-month pandemic-spurred shutdown imposed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruisers faced a barrage of rules, including strict requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations and precruise COVID-19 testing. Later, the rules started to go by the wayside, and it was hard to keep track of who was requiring what. Not anymore.

Most cruise lines have now dropped or are soon dropping rules for both vaccinations and precruise testing, with at least one notable exception. Viking —on its river, ocean, and expedition ships—still requires everyone on board be fully vaccinated .

Another line that was still requiring COVID vaccinations, small-ship line Windstar Cruises, will be scrapping its vaccine mandate as of June 1, 2023. “We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the HVAC systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”

Are COVID vaccinations and testing still required for cruises?

Most cruise lines have dropped both their vaccine and testing requirements. Those that have lingered into 2023—mostly lines operating smaller ships—have been quietly scaling back their requirements.

The result: While there was a time after cruising restarted that you could be assured that your fellow passengers, at least those age 12 and up, were both fully vaccinated and tested for COVID-19 before getting on the ship, that is not the case anymore.

That said, specific countries have their own requirements, and several countries still require that cruise ship passengers are vaccinated and/or tested before arrival. If you are doing an itinerary outside of the Caribbean or Europe (where most vaccine and testing requirements have been dropped)—including to select countries in Central and South America or to Australia—you still have to read your cruise line’s precruise health and safety information carefully to make sure you comply with the latest requirements.

Contact your cruise line or check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories for the latest.

What to know before you cruise

Vaccine and pretrip testing requirements can be confusing, especially if you are cruising internationally. Cruise lines have their own rules; countries have their own rules.

Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise line’s health and safety protocols. If a precruise test is required by a certain country, you will find that noted. In this case, you may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. (If testing is required, it can typically be either a PCR test or tele-health-monitored antigen test , paid for by the passenger. The cruise line may also require a test at the pier, paid for by the cruise line.)

If being fully vaccinated is required, that means having received the original series of vaccines at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot or shots.

As was the case even before the pandemic, you will be asked at embarkation to fill out a questionnaire inquiring about your current health status and whether you currently have any symptoms of illness.

You are free to pack and wear masks on your cruise. Most cruise lines suggest you do wear masks in crowded indoor situations—but it’s not enforced.

A quick cruise line guide to COVID requirements

Here’s a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally. Be sure to review the latest requirements prior to boarding.

American Queen Voyages

On American Queen Voyages’ river, ocean, Great Lakes, and expedition ships, there are no longer any precruise testing or vaccinations required. Face coverings are optional, though masks may be required of any passengers showing symptoms.

Precruise testing is no longer required for vaccinated guests sailing with Azamara , except in ports where testing is required. No vaccination is necessary for cruises departing from or returning to the United States or Europe. In Australia, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing with all required COVID-19 vaccine doses (including a booster shot). Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated.

Celebrity Cruises

No vaccination or testing is required on the majority of Celebrity Cruises sailings. Destinations with stricter requirements include: the Galápagos, Australia and New Zealand, transatlantic crossings, and select Central and South America itineraries. Unvaccinated guests need to be tested in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

As of April 23, 2023, on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , and as of June 8, 2023, on the Queen Elizabeth , vaccinations and testing will no longer be required by Cunard (until then, testing and vaccination requirements apply).

Disney Cruise Line

For sailings embarking from the United States, which are the bulk of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings, no vaccination or testing is required. Disney recommends all guests be vaccinated before sailing and take a test for COVID-19 two days prior to their cruise. There are additional requirements on repositioning cruises and in Australia, so it is important to check the line’s website before your cruise.

Holland America Line

There are no precruise testing or vaccination requirements on most Holland America Line itineraries. There are requirements on select voyages (you can look up a specific voyage’s requirements on the line’s website).

Lindblad Expeditions

For voyages embarking on or after May 11, 2023, Lindblad Expeditions will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, although the line recommends guests be fully vaccinated (for cruises prior to that time, all passengers age five and up must be vaccinated). Lindblad recommends, but does not require, passengers take a predeparture COVID-19 test within five days of the start of their expedition.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine requirements are purely dependent on the destinations being visited on each Oceania cruise. Passengers are advised to be up to date on the latest regulations for all destinations on their cruise itinerary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Effective April 2023, Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer requires that passengers are vaccinated or tested for COVID prior to embarkation, but it continues to encourage vaccination. “Paul Gauguin Cruises’ officers, staff and crew will remain fully vaccinated,” the line states. Travelers will need to present a health declaration form at embarkation.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccines and precruise testing are generally not required to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises . There are some requirements in place based on local health regulations in a specific country a ship is visiting. Regent notifies guests approximately 30 days prior to sailing of any country-specific protocols.

Royal Caribbean

No vaccine or precruise testing is required on the majority of Royal Caribbean itineraries, with a few exceptions: Cruises from Australia, transpacific and transatlantic sailings, and cruises from Hawai‘i to Vancouver.

No vaccine or testing required except on certain Seabourn itineraries where a country may have specific requirements.

No vaccination is required for Silversea passengers except as designated by the destination. Precruise testing is not required except when specified by a destination.

Viking Cruises

All passengers and crew are required to be vaccinated on Viking’s river, ocean, and expedition ships—without exception. Viking strongly recommends passengers receive a booster dose before departing. Viking recommends but does not require a predeparture COVID-19 test (except if required by a destination).

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has no precruise testing or vaccination requirements. Masks may be required at select times.

Windstar Cruises

Beginning June 1, 2023, Windstar will no longer require guests to be vaccinated. Crew will continue to be vaccinated. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending guests wear masks in indoor public spaces. All guests fill out a health questionnaire on embarkation. A precruise COVID-19 test is not required unless you show symptoms.

This article was originally published in May 2022; it was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, with current information.

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Celebrity Cruises Covid restrictions: What rules are onboard? What you can & can't do

Author: Harriet Mallinson

Published on: 12 October 2021

Updated on: 12 October 2021

Celebrity Cruises is a luxury cruise line offering sailings all over the globe but in a post-pandemic world, the brand has introduced a swathe of Covid restrictions.

Celebrity Cruises , just like most other cruise lines, has had to clamp down on health and safety rules in a bid to limit the spread of Covid onboard.

There is a range of policies in place to help keep guests and crew healthy and happy.

This is everything you need to know about the latest restrictions onboard Celebrity ships, from vaccine requirements to social distancing onboard.

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All crew and guests who are eligible to be vaccinated must be fully vaccinated to sail with Celebrity. All doses must be administered at least 14 days before departure.

- READ MORE: Celebrity Cruises reveals dining experiences on new ship Celebrity Beyond -

Do you need a Covid test for a Celebrity cruise?

All vaccinated guests 12 years and older need to take an Antigen or PCR test within two days of embarkation to display upon boarding the ship. You will also need to complete a health questionnaire in advance.

Meanwhile, unvaccinated children between the ages of two and eleven years old must bring a negative Antigen or PCR test result conducted within three days of embarkation.

Do you need travel insurance for a Celebrity holiday?

Celebrity "strongly encourage" passengers to take out fully comprehensive travel insurance for any supplementary costs, per the line's standard booking conditions.

- READ MORE: New travel rules - what are they and how do they impact cruise holidays? -

Do you need to wear a face mask on Celebrity Cruises?

Vaccinated guests don't need to wear a mask inside or outside. Unvaccinated travellers must still wear a face mask inside - although not during dinner or outside.

The Celebrity website adds: "Wear an approved form of mask in accordance with instructions and signage... We recommend that you bring with you enough face masks for your cruise and for the journey from home to the ship."

However, there will be a face mask in your welcome kit and further masks will be available for purchase.

Do you need to social distance on a Celebrity cruise?

Celebrity encourages guests to observe physical distancing rules and room service "will be subject to safe distancing rules."

The cruise line adds: "In certain cases, your order may be left outside your stateroom, you will be required to bring it into your stateroom and to leave your tray outside your stateroom for collection. Tray or trolley collections may also be restricted to room cleaning times, according to the ship cleaning schedule which will be advised to you in advance."

- READ MORE: How I became a high-flying cruise ship acrobat on Celebrity Cruises -

Can I go on shore excursions alone with Celebrity Cruises?

All fully vaccinated guests can go ashore independently and take their own excursions.

Unvaccinated passengers or families travelling with unvaccinated children may still go ashore but they must be on an excursion provided by Celebrity Cruises.

"Our ability to provide shore excursions is heavily dependent on local laws and regulations, therefore our shore excursion policy is subject to change and at short notice," warns Celebrity.

What can't you do on Celebrity Cruises?

On-board shopping or retail facilities "may be restricted or suspended at our sole discretion," says Celebrity.

Your preferred dining option may also not be available as "facilities have been configured for your safety and may require adjustment from time to time."

Onboard bar and lounge facilities and the sale of alcohol onboard "may be temporarily or permanently restricted or suspended due to health and safety requirements or operational issues."

- READ MORE: Royal Caribbean Covid restrictions: What you can and can't do onboard -

Private social gatherings in staterooms are banned.

Designated smoking areas "are subject to closure and physical distancing requirements."

"Special processes" may be introduced in casinos for "health and safety purposes."

Guests also may not get their preferred stateroom "due to health and safety requirements."

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Do I need a Covid test for cruises? Latest updates including Royal Caribbean, P&O and Saga

Saga, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Princess and Fred Olsen all have different rules around coronavirus vaccination and testing requirements

• 16:44, 23 Nov 2022
• Updated 09:53, 24 Nov 2022

The Covid testing and vaccination requirements are different for different cruise lines, so it's crucial you follow the right ones.

The cruise industry was battered more than most during the coronavirus pandemic, with the majority of the world's fleet unable to take passengers for over a year.

Understandably, those operating ships are keen to avoid coronavirus outbreaks while out at sea and the minimise the prospect of quarantining guests.

While coronavirus infection rates and deaths are much lower in the UK and other Western countries now, restrictions designed to stop its spread remain in place in many nations - so it's important to check local rules ahead of travel.

Here are six of the biggest cruise companies and their current rules for UK travellers:

Royal Caribbean

On boarding day in Southampton, vaccinated guests living in the UK no longer need to take a test on arrival at the terminal, but will be asked to present their negative PCR test and Covid vaccine certificate.

Unvaccinated guests from two to 17-years-old living in the UK will be required to take a complimentary rapid antigen test on arrival at the cruise terminal and receive a negative result in order to sail, and will be asked to present their negative PCR test result.

Protocols to cruising have been lifted on Princess, meaning "for most voyages there are no longer vaccination or testing requirements", the company states on its website.

To make sure of the rules on your specific cruise, you can use Princess's CruiseHealth tool .

P&O cruises

Testing is not mandatory but it is "highly recommended" that all customers take one three days before departure.

All adults must be fully vaccinated.

Guests aged five to 17 years who are not fully vaccinated will need to take a lateral flow/antigen test in the three days before, or on the day of departure.

You’ll no longer need to provide a test certificate, but you must be able to provide photo evidence of your negative test if asked - simply write your name and the date of testing on a piece of paper and include in the photo.

Guests aged four years and under remain exempt from all pre-travel vaccination and testing requirements.

Disney Cruise Line

Fully vaccinated guests will no longer be required to provide a negative Covid test upon embarkation.

Guests who do not qualify as fully vaccinated will still be required to provide proof of a negative Covid test taken one to three days prior to sailing.

All guests aged 12 and above must be fully vaccinated, and those who have been in contact with anyone with Covid within seven days of the cruise leaving should not travel.

All guests will be required to take their own lateral flow test at home within 24 hours of the departure date of the cruise and bring the proof of a negative test result to show at check-in.

If you arrive at the port without confirmation of a negative result, you will be asked to complete a £25 test at the terminal, which will result in a delay at check-in.

All customers travelling with Saga Holidays until 31 December 2022 must be fully vaccinated against Covid.

All UK Government testing requirements have been removed. However, a pre-departure test by the destination to be visited may still be required, so you should check local rules.

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Creating the best cruise experience possible means prioritizing the well-being of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit. With the guidance of health officials around the globe and the counsel of our dedicated shoreside and shipboard medical teams, we continually update our health and safety protocols to align with global best practices.

If you’re currently booked on a cruise vacation with us and have provided an email address, you will be advised of the latest health and safety guidance leading up to departure. Be sure to update your guest account so that we may reach you.

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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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