It does not matter where you live in the world; you are likely learning new ways to adapt to life in the post-COVID world. Thankfully, the travel industry leads the way, offering options for those who want to enjoy travel as they once did.
However, any who has ever been on all inclusive cruises understands this industry has always made guests’ safety and health a priority. During the suspension of cruises, each cruise line took the time to review operations and ensure the right protections and safeguards were in place to keep travelers safe and healthy for the duration of their trip.
Keep reading to learn about some of the safety measures cruise lines are implementing and how you can keep yourself safe while enjoying a cruise.
Social Distancing While on Board the Ship
Many cruise lines are offering half the normal capacity that is allowed on the boats. There are also one-way streets marked on the public parts of the boat. This helps to ensure that guests stay the recommended distance apart from one another.
The small and medium-sized ships were quickly changed and adapted to social distancing, and few modifications were actually needed. For the larger ships, this presented somewhat of a problem. One solution the cruise lines came up with was to limit the numbers of people in public spaces at a time and to limit attendance to the events schedule on-board.
Social Distancing on the Shore
As COVID continues to be a problem, people adjust and find ways to enjoy the things they did pre-COVID, with additional safeguards in place. When on a cruise ship, you have the opportunity to go to shore for various excursions. However, for most lines, the group sizes will be reduced significantly.
For example, many cruise lines are splitting their guests into smaller groups, requiring face masks while on buses, and guests were given audio systems to help them maintain social distancing while enjoying their vacation.
Elimination of Buffets
One of the most significant changes in cruise lines is the onboard dining experience. Self-service and traditional buffet service options will be eliminated altogether.
Some cruises are implementing set mealtimes, as well as reserved seating for guests. Also, the items that are typically shared, such as bread and butter, will be served to each person individually. Alternative dining options are also being offered to help guests have more space, and safety screens are being used between tables as needed.
Face Masks
Masks are going to be necessary when traveling via a cruise ship. However, where and when face masks are required is dependent on the individual cruise line.
In most cases, you can expect to have face masks mandatory if you are in an area where you are unable to remain six feet away from others. This usually includes in corridors and public areas on the ship. Usually, the only time that you will be excused from wearing the mask is when you are sitting at your table, eating.
Most cruise lines will also encourage you to wear a mask while going to the shore. They will also likely have masks for passengers to help ensure they remain safe and keep others safe while on- and off-board the ship.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Even though most cruise lines have maintained strict hygiene and cleaning standards, after COVID-19, they will have even more stringent measures to help ensure the safety and health of the crew and passengers on board.
Most cruise lines are now using hospital-grade disinfectants, and some are instituting temperature checks for passengers before they are allowed to board. Other sanitation methods include using UV lights on solid surfaces to help identify any organic material that is not visible to the naked eye.
All cruise lines are also encouraging passengers and requiring crew members to disinfect and wash their hands often. To help facilitate this, they are installing disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer stations throughout the ship.
Going on a Cruise
If you have decided you want to go on a cruise, be sure to know what to expect and what you can do to help keep yourself and others safe. While cruise lines are taking steps to facilitate this, it is up to you to follow the regulations in place.
