The UK Chamber of Shipping (UK's trade association for passenger and cargo shipping industry) worked closely with the cruise shipping industry for 6+ months developing new Framework documents for cruise operators to implement brand new measures with "enhanced public health protection."
The COVID Framework was produced in collaboration with CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association). It is the culmination of collaborative work between industry partners, health experts, and cruise operators. The Framework will help inform the restart of the industry "when the time is right and public health conditions allow." Currently, there is no restart date for the cruise industry but CLIA, operators, and the UK Chamber of Shipping will go on working with the government on future plans.
The wellbeing and health of passengers and crew have always been the top priority for the industry, which already implements stringent safety and hygiene standards. The UK cruise sector is worth GBP 10 billion to the economy of the UK and supports 88,000+ jobs. The new documents have been shared with the industry's stakeholders and agreed by the major cruise operators.
The Framework documents for operators and crew advises on what measures should be implemented onboard for the safety of passengers and crew. It details how cruise companies should communicate with their guests from the time of booking, traveling from their home, to a cruise port, embarkation, and throughout the cruise. Similar information is laid out for the safety of seafarers. The passenger guidance provides advice on necessary considerations to be aware of prior to booking, and information on what to expect, including measures they'll need to adhere to throughout the sailing.