Hurtigruten Expeditions announced it is updating and simplifying its COVID protocols.
The main change is the removal of pre-departure testing across all departures/ships, except for Antarctica expedition voyages, effective no later than October 1, 2022.
For Antarctica expedition cruises, passengers must still provide proof of a negative COVID test to embark on the ships.
Hurtigruten will arrange for tests for all passengers during the transfer from either Buenos Aires (Argentina) or Valparaiso-Santiago (Chile). Cruise-only passengers in Antarctica who sail to Ushuaia/Punta Arenas independently must arrange for their own COVID test within 72 hours before boarding.
Masks are no longer mandatory onboard/during landings and land adventures, but passengers are still encouraged to wear them in public areas onboard all cruise ships.
Hurtigruten will still require proof of full COVID vaccination with a WHO vaccine before embarkation on all sailings. This applies to all guests aged 12+ years. Although recommended, a booster dose is not required.
All Hurtigruten crew members across all liners are fully vaccinated.
Iain McNeill, SVP Operations in Hurtigruten Expeditions said their updated protocols would more closely align with land-based travel options and the current environment across their destinations. He added they would offer their guests the best possible experience, with the peace of mind of exploring with them onboard a fully vaccinated ship.
“They also ensure the ease of exploration remains, with guests enjoying some of the most spectacular areas of our planet, while knowing that health, safety and wellness of our guests, crew and communities we visit is our number one priority.”
COVID testing/vaccination requirements may differ for some destinations based on local regulations, so where tests are required, passengers must still provide proof of negative test results. Hurtigruten Expeditions strongly recommend all passengers to familiarize themselves with local COVID regulations prior to departure.