After updating their vaccine policies, Cunard Line and P&O UK have become the first lines requiring mandatory COVID vaccines plus protection with booster shots, following the fast spreading of the omicron variant.
All booked guests intending to embark Cunard's Queen Mary 2 on January 14, were informed in a letter about the updates:
"In order to travel on your voyage, all guests must be fully vaccinated with a booster vaccination at least seven days prior to travel.
"The definition of "fully vaccinated" being having completed an approved two dose Covid-19 vaccination course with a third booster vaccination (approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) or the World Health Organization’s Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL)), or the approved single dose Janssen Covid-19 vaccine with a booster.
"A single or double dose of any other vaccine will not be accepted."
It is also stated in the letter that all guests will be required negative COVID testing prior to embarkation. Further details will follow.
The companies offer their clients reschedule of the voyage or a cancellation with a full refund.
Currently, the cruise company requires passengers sailing on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 to provide proof of vaccination against COVID as a condition of embarkation.