Cruise Holidays - Attheta Travel

I am proud to be certified by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) as an Elite Cruise Counselor. The Cruise Counselor Certification Program is CLIA's most comprehensive training which requires agents to successfully complete a number of compulsory training courses and exams, attend cruise conferences, and conduct ship inspections. Anita Thompson, Attheta Travel, dba Cruise Holidays.

Monday, October 12, 2020

When You Cruise Again: What to Expect

While waiting to step onboard a cruise ship in a U.S. port once again, you may be wondering how cruise policies and procedures are changing to meet new, pandemic-era health and safety needs. It’s safe to say that there will be lots of changes, some more visible than others. Here’s what we know right now about what you can expect.

 More health screenings. The highly transmissible COVID-19 virus makes it important that everyone who comes on board is healthy. Passengers could be asked to provide documentation that they are virus-free and fit to travel. Expect touchless temperature checks when you board and when entering public spaces on the ship. Hand sanitizer stations have become an onboard fixture in recent years, but expect to see even more of them, along with reminders to use them frequently.

 Masks. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention says masks can slow the spread of COVID-19 and help prevent people who have the virus from transmitting it to others. So, as on land, it’s likely that cruise passengers will be asked to wear masks at least some of the time. This may include when you’re in enclosed public spaces on the ship, or in areas where it’s not possible to keep at least 6 feet of physical distance between passengers. Some cruise lines have announced their intention to provide masks to passengers, but before you cruise again, check with your professional travel advisor on whether you should bring your own.

 Fewer passengers. To help make it easier to keep physical distance between passengers, ships are likely to reduce passenger capacity. You can also expect smaller group sizes for onboard and onshore activities, and reduced capacity in onboard entertainment, sports and dining venues.

 Less self-service. To help keep things sanitary, you probably won’t be able to serve yourself from the buffet, coffee bar or ice-cream machine. Instead, a crew member will bring your selections to you.

 Behind-the-scenes safety measures. Some cruise lines have announced upgraded air filtration systems, expanded medical facilities and staff, hourly sanitizing of high-touch items like doorknobs and deck rails, and the use of advanced electrostatic disinfection equipment.

 If these expected changes to cruising seem difficult, please remember that these are unusual times; cruise lines, crews, and passengers will get through this together. In addition, pandemic-related restrictions and requirements won’t change the best reasons to cruise: to relax, enjoy wonderful service, and see something out of the ordinary.

 

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel