In the ever changing world of Covid, we need to know that health and safety protocols and procedures change. So when Royal Caribbean testing requirements changed today, guests who are booked on or are considering booking a cruise in the near future have options to consider. Will these changes disrupt the cruise experience enough to outweigh the positive cruise experience or is it a matter of adjusting expectations and continuing with the vacation as planned?

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Another important update has come through regarding enhanced boarding measures, specifically for our short itineraries. As you know, last week, we shared that all sailing 5-nights and longer departing from U.S. homeports throughout the month of August would require proof of a negative COVID-19 test (antigen or PCR) as a requirement to board. This remains in effect and, in fact, has now been expanded to sailings less than 5-nights in length.

Royal Caribbean

Many Royal Caribbean itineraries sailing from US ports make a stop at Perfect Day at Coco Cay, a fun island owned by Royal Caribbean Group (Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea). I used to think the private island stops were the weak point of any cruise but Perfect Day has changed my perspective with so many free activities available (and really great upcharge activities and options). With so much for young families to do, and plenty of ways to relax for those who value relaxation, I think the latest Royal Caribbean testing requirements are going to have a negative impact on Perfect Day.

What You Need To Know About Royal Caribbean Testing Requirements

• Effective on 3- & 4-night itineraries departing August 13 – 30, 2021, short cruises sailing from U.S. homeports will now require all guests over the age of 2 years (regardless of vaccine status) to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, administered no more than three days prior to the sail date. 
  • Guests must arrange this test at their own expense.  
• For guests who don’t want to follow these protocols, Royal Caribbean will provide a refund or move guests to a future sailing when circumstances may have evolved. 
• This is an additional layer of precaution for everyone’s well-being. 
• Royal Caribbean will continue to monitor the public health circumstances and, as they evolve, is committed to sharing the latest protocols.

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