Carnival, Norwegian, MSC Add Health Protocols

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to morph, cruise line health and safety protocols adjust accordingly. Carnival Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines and MSC have all recently announced new health and safety protocols in response to the latest developments in case numbers of the disease and virus variants.

MSC Cruises

MSC now requires guests aged two and older - whether vaccinated or not - to present a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of departure. This update will start with cruises that leave on and after 27AUG, 2021 for vacations that leave from Miami and Port Canaveral.

Fully vaccinated guests must provide either a negative RT-PCR test, negative NAAT or negative antigen test. Not fully vaccinated guests must provide a negative RT-PCR test or NAAT. Antigen tests will not be accepted. This new protocol is in addition to the tests that guests will take at the pier.

Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL has announced that it will extend all its current COVID safety protocols until at least 31DEC. That includes the requirement that all passengers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and participate in rapid antigen testing at the pier. Previously, they were set to expire on 01NOV.

Guests who are not old enough to be vaccinated will not be allowed on board.

"However, we eagerly await an expansion of the age criteria for vaccinations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration so we can once again welcome these guests back on board,” the company said in a statement.

Carnival Cruise Line

Meanwhile, Carnival has increased its health measures after already requiring mandatory vaccinations for guests.

“Carnival will continue to operate with vaccinated cruises as defined by the CDC, including having its crew fully vaccinated. However, in an abundance of caution, and following the lead of similar sectors and venues – including Nevada casinos, Disney theme parks, and Broadway theaters – all guests will be asked to wear masks in certain indoor areas of Carnival’s ships,” the company said.

Also starting with last weekend’s departures, passengers now have to bring negative test results in addition to their proof of vaccination to board their cruise.

Carnival will also implement a $150 testing fee for any guests it exempts from its vaccination rules and still allows to sail.