With cruise ships in the under a , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is seeking input from the public on when they should set sail again.
Uncertainty around the pandemic is affecting travel worldwide. Consequently, many organizations are seeking guidance on how to reopen safely. The CDC has put a request through the Federal Register, seeking suggestions and ideas from interested individuals and organizations to inform future public health guidance and preventative measures related to travel on cruise ships.
The 28-question survey asks respondents’ opinions on what cruise ships should implement to prevent transmission of COVID-19. It evaluates several key areas, including:
- Testing frequency for passengers and crew.
- Reducing passenger capacity.
- Handling potential travel restrictions.
- Shortening trip durations.
- Addressing seaport closures.
- Implementing COVID-19 diagnostic testing onboard.
It is crucial to get things right because, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, every day of suspended cruise operations results in a total loss of approximately $110 million (€97.4 million) in economic activity and up to 800 American jobs. The CDC reports that 80% of cruise ships have been affected by the virus to date. Moreover, there were 2,973 COVID-19 or COVID-like illness cases reported on ships between March 1 and July 10, along with 34 fatalities across 123 different cruise ships.
Those interested in contributing to the survey can do so online or by mail by September 21. Further information is available here.
Lockdowns are easing globally as the planet adjusts to a new normal.
