The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance for travelers who are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 to recommend they avoid cruises, regardless of vaccination status.
The new CDC guidance applies to people with certain medical conditions, older adults, pregnant and recently pregnant people. Before the announcement, the agency recommended that only people who were not fully COVID vaccinated avoid cruise ships.
CDC protocol says that at least 95% of passengers and crew members must show proof of vaccination to board a cruise ship.
A number of cruise companies strengthened COVID regulations on ex-USA voyages as the "delta variant" continues to spread. Earlier this month, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, HAL-Holland America Line, and Princess Cruises added mask requirements in select spaces as well as testing requirements for all guests, regardless of vaccination status.
The CDC recommends people who go on cruise vacations wear a mask in shared spaces and get tested 1 to 3 days before their voyage and 3 to 5 days after, regardless of vaccination status. Those who are not fully vaccinated should self-quarantine for at least 7 days after their journey ends, the CDC's website says.