Centers for Disease Control has temporarily extended its Framework for Conditional Sailing Order until January 15, 2022, with minor modifications. This measure applies to all shipping registered overseas that enters or operates in U.S. waters. It is worth noting CDC extends its COVID rules for cruise ships in line with broader COVID-19 policies. And that these also apply to all crew and passengers, regardless of nationality.
U.S. Controls Over Foreign Shipping in Its Waters
Centers for Disease Control issued a No Sail Order on March 14, 2020. This was after several incidents on cruise ships where the virus spread like wildfire. This continued until October 30, 2020, when a Conditional Sailing Order came into force.
This order contained a technical framework for cruise companies to practice. Until they were ready to apply for conditional sailing certificates in terms of a May 5, 2021 update. The latest sailing order dated October 25, 2021 will convert to a voluntary program on January 15, 2022, unless the situation changes.
COVID Rules for Cruise Ships Extend with a CDC Warning
The October 21, 2021 announcement is however not an affirmation the danger is over. That’s because the following Travelers’ Health Advisory accompanies CDC extending its COVID rules for cruise ships.
1… The virus causing COVID-19 spreads easily between people in close quarters aboard ships, and the chance of getting COVID-19 on cruise ships is high.
2… People without vaccination, or having an increased risk of illness should avoid travel on cruise ships, including river cruises, worldwide.
3… Those who decide to join a cruise should have tests 1 to 3 days before their trip, and 3 to 5 days after their trip regardless of vaccination status.
4… All passengers without vaccinations should self-quarantine for 7 days after cruise travel, even if they test negative. But if they do not get tested, they should self-quarantine for 10 days after cruise travel.
5… And finally, all passengers on cruise ships should wear face masks to keep their noses and mouths covered, when in public spaces.
It almost goes without saying people with COVID symptoms should not go onboard cruise ships under any circumstances. They should check the company’s cancellation policies before paying the deposit. They may have a COVID money back guarantee if they develop an infection .
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