CDC COVID-19 Protocols for Cruise Travel

Travelers embarking on a cruise that travels through the US will have to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) COVID-19 protocols until at least January 15, 2022, under a temporary extension of the Framework for Conditional Sailing Order (CSO) for cruise ships.

Health and Safety Protocols

Speaking to USA Today, the head of the CDC’s maritime unit, Capt. Aimee Treffiletti, stated that the agency made the decision “in the best interest of public health.” This highlights the ongoing importance of health measures as the pandemic evolves.

“The pandemic isn’t over. We’ve seen what the delta variant can do,” Treffiletti emphasized. “Despite the best efforts of the cruise industry to provide a safer and healthier environment for crew, passengers, and the communities, COVID-19 remains a challenge, particularly with the delta variant.” This statement underscores the ongoing diligence required in managing public health on cruise ships.

Conditions for Cruise Operations

The order is applicable to cruise ships with the capacity to carry at least 250 passengers in waters subject to US jurisdiction. Under these rules:

• Laboratory testing onboard will require crew members to undergo COVID-19 testing each week.
• Crew members will be provided with personal protective equipment.
• Travelers must undergo testing upon arrival and departure from the ship.
• Written agreements with ports must be established to approve quarantine housing for passengers or crew members as needed.

Transitioning Forward

Once cruise ship operators meet the specified conditions, they will receive approved COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate applications, allowing them to sail with passengers.

“Since the issuance of the CSO on October 30, 2020, cruise lines, with CDC assistance, have developed and implemented robust health and safety protocols to manage COVID-19 and have gradually resumed passenger operations,” the CDC stated on Monday.

Once the extension expires on January 15, the CDC intends to transition to a voluntary program that will enable cruise ship operators to “detect, mitigate, and control the spread of COVID-19 onboard cruise ships.” Additional details regarding this program are anticipated soon, providing more information for travelers planning their cruise vacations.

For comprehensive details on the Conditional Sailing Order for Cruise Ships, further information can be found on the CDC’s website.

This article was first published on July 21, 2020, and updated on October 26, 2021.