Cruise shipping companies welcomed the latest announcement from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) that testing will no longer be required for travelers flying into the United States.
Beginning this Sunday, June 12, travelers who are flying back into the U.S. after a cruise/a trip for any reason will no longer have to provide a negative COVID test prior to boarding their international flight home.
John Padgett, President of Princess, said that was "a tremendous development" that allowed their guests to travel more easily/without stress throughout Europe as well as experience the line's Alaskan voyages that conclude in a Canadian port.
Gus Antorcha, President of HAL-Holland America, echoed a similar statement regarding the change from the Centers.
“The CDC ending its requirement of a negative COVID-19 test for Americans to reenter the United States is an important step forward in the return to all global travel, including cruising. The change means that U.S. travelers can pursue their love of cruising Holland America Line voyages from homeports in Europe, Canada and Australia without concern they could be denied entry to return home."
The change doesn't affect the pre-cruise testing requirement that companies are currently requiring.