In response to the conclusion of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-CDC’s voluntary program, Virgin Voyages announced it will continue to consider the recommendations set forth by the organization while adhering to the industry policies outlined by CLIA-Cruise Lines International Association.
As a result of the update, Virgin will remove the requirements for pre-embarkation COVID testing.
The cruise company responded immediately to the Center’s decision to discontinue their voluntary "COVID Program for Cruise Ships" and is due to mirror the rest of the travel industry in removing pre-embarkation COVID testing for sailings from July 24 on EU voyages, and from July 27 on USA voyages.
COVID vaccine requirements remain in place for both Scarlet Lady, operating from the US, and Valiant Lady in the EU.
Virgin Voyages is evaluating the policy and will announce updates in the near future.
From the dates mentioned, guests will no longer be required to complete a pre-embarkation COVID test, applicable across the Virgin Voyages' fleet, including USA and EU operations.
For US sailings, passenger vaccination requirements will now be marked at 90%.
Ship crew on all US & EU sailings will maintain their fully vaccinated status.
Other well-being measures implemented during the COVID crisis, such as enhanced air purification systems & deep cleaning/sanitization are to be maintained.
Virgin will continue to work closely with the CDC as well as collaborate with the industry to implement appropriate measures.