
On 18AUG, Windstar Cruises announced revised COVID-19 protocols and procedures and will no longer require a pre-cruise COVID-19 test for embarking guests - unless required by one of the countries on the cruise line's current scheduled itineraries. These changes will go into effect for cruises departing on or after 06SEP 2022.
As part of its Beyond Ordinary Care health and safety program, Windstar will still require all guests to be fully vaccinated and show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
The exception to this new testing procedure is that Windstar must follow the local rules and regulations of all the countries it visits and currently Canada, Greece, Australia and New Zealand (subject to change) still require COVID-19 pre-testing prior to boarding any ship in their respective waters.
“Safety and wellness are our first concern, and these new procedures will simplify the process of sailing with us on a fully vaccinated ship,” said Chris Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises.
Windstar's removal of pre-cruise testing follows moves from Norwegian Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Group, and Carnival Corporation, which have all removed pre-cruise testing and some vaccination mandates for select cruise brands.
For more information on Windstar Cruises, visit its web site.