What we can no longer do on cruises: 11 new bans

Before quarantine became a reality in the United States, cruise ships provided a troubling view of what was about to happen. From the 14-day quarantine of thousands of people on the virus-stricken ship Diamond Princess in February, to the horrific stories of worker cruise ships sitting in their tiny cabins for months. It kept people wondering if anyone could ever cruise again? The answers to the main questions were given by the publication Reader's Digest.

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Now that the hectic summer is ending, several smaller cruise lines are resuming their flights. Others, however, including major carriers such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney, continue to wait. Whenever you decide to go on a voyage by ship again, you will now have to put up with the new rules of being on the ship. Of course, they may differ slightly depending on the cruise line and the individual vessel, but we will list the general ones that, according to experts, you need to be prepared when going on a trip.

Wearing masks

Face masks will be a reality for a long time. It goes without saying that you won't be able to board a cruise ship without it. “Yes, you can’t cruise without a mask,” confirms Dr. Terika Haynes, owner of Dynamite Travel. Although you probably won't need to wear it all the time on the ship, only during "social events, entertainment and events in public places." You will also need them to check in and board the ship.

Entrance to the cabin

The boarding process will be a little different from what cruisers remember. Firstly, all passengers will not be able to board or leave the ship at the same time. Most likely, they will be seated in a checkerboard pattern. Dr. Haynes also warns that once you enter the ship, you will not be able to immediately get to your cabin. “They will undergo more thorough cleaning between flights, including steaming mattresses, etc.,” she explained.

Shore excursions

For many cruisers, shore excursions are the best part of their vacation. But, unfortunately, they will significantly limit them - if they exist at all. After all, cruise companies would not want to infect the population of the port they entered, or become infected themselves. Although some ports, also unwilling, may not allow cruise ships to dock.

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“Tour options at ports may be reduced and passengers will have to practice safety measures in the places they visit,” said Edgar Arroyo, president of travel services company SJD Taxi. “It is likely that requirements will vary widely between ports, and passengers may face different rules in different locations.”

Health check

Usually, you are required to provide some medical information prior to sailing on a cruise. But during and after COVID-19, the number of health checks will increase. Passengers will have to fill out health questionnaires with detailed answers, undergo temperature screening, and perhaps even take a test. If they do not meet the requirements, they will not be allowed on board. Dr. Haynes even suggests that some aspects of check-in and drop-off could become virtual to simplify the process.

Luggage on board

Of course, you can take your luggage with you. However, you may have to part with it before you board the ship, just like you do on an airplane, to allow your belongings to go through the cleaning process. “Travellers' luggage can be immediately disinfected upon boarding,” emphasizes Dr. Haynes. Rumor has it that on some ships passengers have to return the clothes they boarded in for deep cleaning.

Bars and Restaurants

As with all establishments on land, ships will also be less crowded than usual. Arroyo predicts ships will begin operating at 60 to 70 percent capacity. “This means cruises will be less crowded and passengers can practice safe distancing,” he says. Of course, distance indicators will be provided almost everywhere on ships. In particular, social distancing will be particularly reinforced in indoor spaces. “Now you won’t be able to visit restaurants, theaters, bars, children’s areas, etc. with as many people as before,” says Dr. Haynes. “These spaces will provide reduced maximum occupancy to accommodate social distancing.”

Cocktail

It's no secret that buffets, a signature feature of cruises, aren't the most hygienic meals. Cruise passengers will no longer be able to bring their own food in an effort to reduce the possible spread of germs. “Some companies will abandon the buffet concept entirely,” explains Dr. Haynes. “Others will continue to offer service options where staff serve your food instead of you serving it.” Arroyo adds that meal times may vary, so you may not be able to eat whenever you want.

Public toilets

Cruise lines may recommend that you use the bathrooms in the cabins, Arroyo said. He says he may be asked not to use public toilets if possible. However, "there will probably be more sinks so that passengers can wash their hands regularly."

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Indoor show

Sadly, concerts and live theater performances will be one of the last events to return as we adjust to the post-COVID-19 world, and cruises are no exception. Ships may not have indoor shows at all, and if they do, the capacity of cinemas is likely to be significantly reduced.

Take whatever you want

Amenities on cruise ships won't be as widely available as they used to be, especially when it comes to items that multiple people may touch. Arroyo predicts that shared equipment, such as for classes, "will only be available on demand, not free." Passengers may need to request sports mats or tennis rackets, which must be disinfected beforehand.

Shaking hands

Gone are the days when you shook hands with the cruise captain or crew members. However, this does not mean that you will not be able to meet them. Travel journalist David Yeskel, aka The Cruise Guru, noted that Windstar Cruises has come up with a great alternative to the handshake. On this cruise line, "crew will use a new hand signal called 'Windstar Wave': making a 'W' with your fingers," he said. “And guests can respond with the same sign.”

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