CruiseHealth™ FAQ: Sailings from Europe

Current Health Protocols for AUSTRALIA CRUISES

Updated 04/05/2022

  • Vaccinations
    • Guests must have received their final dose of an authorized COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days before the beginning of the cruise and provide acceptable proof at terminal check-in.
    • Boosters are highly recommended for those eligible at least seven days before cruising.
  • Testing
    • At terminal check-in guests must attest to a negative viral COVID-19 test (PCR or rapid antigen) taken before embarkation.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements

What are the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for these cruises?

Princess Cruises continues to operate cruises that meet health authority requirements for sailing with at least 95% of guests fully vaccinated. These cruises are available for guests who have received their final dose of an Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved or recognised COVID-19 vaccine, with the last dose being administered at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and can provide proof of vaccination. In addition, where local regulations allow, we’re managing a process for exemptions. Guests with medical contraindications to the vaccine and children under the age of 12 who are not fully vaccinated are permitted to travel, subject to pre-approval by Princess Cruises.

Fully vaccinated guests must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination (with the dates of doses received) at the terminal prior to boarding. Failure to provide this evidence will result in denial of boarding. If you are unlikely to be fully vaccinated at the time of departure, please refer to our Book with Confidence Policy.

Guests should always ensure they understand all requirements to travel from their home country to the destinations they plan to visit. Requirements are updated frequently, and official websites and apps developed by government agencies and tourism ministries are recommended sources for protocols.

A specific law is not required to implement vaccination requirements. Also, having vaccination requirements is not in itself unlawful. The cruising industry and Commonwealth, NSW, Queensland and Victorian governments have agreed to guidelines aimed at mitigating the risk of COVID-19, which includes a minimum of 95% of guests on each cruise must be fully vaccinated. Children under 12 years of age who are unvaccinated, as well as anyone over the age of 12 who holds a valid medical exemption as defined by the Commonwealth Government will be permitted to cruise as long as the unvaccinated group is less than 5% of the total number of guests on board.


Which COVID-19 vaccines will be accepted on board?

In line with the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ for the purpose of Australia’s border arrangements, you will be considered fully vaccinated if you have completed a primary course (for most vaccines, this is two doses), including a mixed dose schedule, of TGA approved or recognised vaccines, with the last dose given at least 14 days prior to the cruise departure date.

Although boosters are not currently required, it is strongly recommended you are ‘up to date’ with your COVID-19 vaccinations, which includes the primary course plus booster, where eligible, prior to travelling on a cruise.

Currently approved or authorized vaccines:


COVID-19 Vaccination Manufacturer

Also known as:

1

Pfizer: 2 doses

Comirnaty / BioNTech

2

Moderna: 2 doses

Spikevax

3

Johnson & Johnson: 1 dose

Janssen

4

AstraZeneca: 2 doses

Covishield / Vaxzevria

5

Sinopharm: 2 doses

Vero Cell

6

Sinovac: 2 doses

CoronaVac

7

Covaxin: 2 doses


8

Novavax: 2 doses

Covovax/Nuvaxovid

For updated authorized vaccine information, refer to:

For Australia, refer to:

What is considered fully vaccinated?

For an individual to be considered fully vaccinated, at least 14 days must have passed after the administration of the last dose in their primary vaccine series. Some countries and regions also have a time limit for when the last dose was given or a booster requirement. In line with the Australian definition ‘fully vaccinated’ for the purpose of Australia’s border arrangements, guests will be considered fully vaccinated if they have completed a primary course, including a mixed dose schedule, of TGA approved or recognised vaccines, with the last dose given at least 14 days prior to the cruise departure date. The Australian Government recommends a booster three months after your final dose of a mRNA COVID-19 vaccine series; other countries and regions allow for up to nine months or vary. Following the Australian Government guidance is sufficient to meet the requirements of most of the ports we visit.

How will you check that I am fully vaccinated?

It is our guests’ responsibility to comply with the Princess vaccination policy.

Before cruise departure, guests eligible for vaccination will be required to attest through the MedallionClass app that they will be fully vaccinated at the time of embarkation. This means completing all required doses of a COVID-19 vaccine series at least 14 days before embarkation. Guests should be ready to show original proof of vaccination at cruise check-in.

Original proof of vaccination should clearly show the guest’s name on the vaccination card or certificate, which matches their photo ID, the dates vaccine doses were given (final dose must have been received at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise), and the name of the authorized vaccine. Alternative proof may be required if there are questions and concerns about the submitted proof of vaccination.

Failure to provide this evidence will result in denial of boarding. Information provided will be subject to our privacy notice on princess.com and shared only as needed with Princess personnel, third parties or local health authorities as part of embarkation-related health protocols.


What proof of full vaccination will be accepted?

For Australian departures, the following proof of vaccination status is required:

  • Australian International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) – for international and domestic itineraries
  • Australian COVID-19 digital certificate - for Australian domestic itineraries only; or
  • New Zealand International Travel Vaccination Certificate or a Foreign vaccination certificate that meets Australia's requirements

Your vaccination certificates must detail all doses received, and the date of the latest dose must be at least 14 days prior to your cruise departure date.

For Australian domestic itineraries, if you have a valid Australian passport, please use your Australian International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC).

Do any vaccination exemptions apply for individuals recently recovered from COVID-19?

Guests sailing are required to be fully vaccinated. Documentation of recovery from COVID-19 or blood antibody tests are not accepted in place of a primary vaccination series.

Are mixed vaccine types accepted?

In a two-dose series, we accept mixed vaccine types only if at least two doses of an authorized vaccine were administered at least 28 days apart, with the last dose given at least 14 days before sailing. See question "Which COVID-19 vaccines will be accepted on board?" for a list of currently approved or authorized vaccines.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose?

COVID-19 vaccine boosters are strongly recommended by the Australian Government for everyone eligible and should be received at least seven days before embarkation.

Boosters may be required on specific voyages or by certain health authorities on the itinerary. Vaccination entry requirements can change without notice, so we recommend you keep your vaccination status up to date and ensure you are familiar with the requirements for the destinations you plan to visit.

Will you offer any exemptions to your vaccination standards?

We manage an exemption process for a small number of guests with medical contraindications to the vaccine and for children under the age of 12, subject to the regulations of the ports we visit. Exemptions are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To apply for an exemption, guests are to contact Princess Cruises via the contact details below. Australian guests will need to send their proof of medical exemption via an Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) certificate to a specified email given to them via the contact centre. International guests who can’t have their contraindication recorded in the AIR must provide a medical certificate that indicates they are unable to be vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine because of a medical condition.

To request an exemption, please call us:

  • Australia: 13 24 88
  • New Zealand: 0800 780 717
  • North America: 1-800-PRINCESS
  • United Kingdom: 0344 338 8663

COVID-19 Testing Requirements

Will I need to have a pre-travel viral COVID-19 test performed prior to boarding the ship?

Based on current Australian requirements for cruising, all guests will require a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken before boarding:

  • Within 24 hours for Rapid-Antigen Test (RAT)
  • Within 72 hours for PCR

Guests who have been approved for a vaccination exemption will also be advised of additional protocols upon arrival at the cruise terminal.

Guests who travel internationally should ensure they understand all entry and airline requirements to travel from their home country and the destinations they plan to visit, including where health authorities may require pre-travel COVID-19 testing.

If I have been fully vaccinated, why do I need to be tested for COVID-19?

We have implemented this mandatory testing policy out of an abundance of caution and based on evidence that those who are vaccinated can become infected and spread COVID-19. As always, our primary commitment is to the health, safety and well-being of our guests, crew and the communities we visit.

What types of COVID-19 tests are accepted?

Guests must take a SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) viral test that's either an antigen test or a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).

  • Antigen tests include:
    • Rapid antigen
    • Viral antigen
    • Antigen chromatographic digital immunoassay
    • Antigen chemiluminescence immunoassay
    • Antigen lateral flow fluorescence
  • Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) include:
    • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
    • Reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-PCR)
    • Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
    • Reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP)
    • Transcription-mediated amplification (TMA)
    • Molecular test or molecular diagnostic
    • Isothermal amplification
    • Droplet digital PCR or digital droplet PCR (ddPCR)
    • Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)
Where can I get a viral COVID-19 test near me?

Contact your nearest health center, pharmacy (including Chemist Warehouse and Priceline), state health department or the airport from where you are departing to learn more about their availability for COVID-19 testing.

For Australian-based guests, Princess requires you to complete either a polymerase chain reaction (PCR, or RT-PCR) test or rapid antigen self-tests (RATs) prior to embarkation. To find your nearest PCR COVID-19 testing clinic, visit the Australian health services website. RATs are available at most major supermarkets (such as Woolworths or Coles) or chemists/pharmacies (such as Chemist Warehouse or Priceline). Eligible Commonwealth concession card holders can access free RATs (up to 10 RATs over a 3-month period) through community pharmacies. For more information visit the Australian government testing website.

For U.S.-based vaccinated guests, Princess also recommends the following options for FDA-authorized, medically supervised at-home antigen test kits.

  • Optum - which offers an at-home antigen test kit ($69.99 for two) that can be ordered and shipped to your door in three business days or less. These at-home tests include a virtual, video-supervised visit with an eMed Certified Guide through telehealth services. These guides will help you properly administer the test and verify the results within 15 minutes. The lab result report is delivered via email and can be printed or displayed on your mobile device during check-in. Please place your order about two weeks prior to your boarding. Order your Optum test kit online.
  • Radeas - which offers an at-home antigen test kit ($45 each) thath can be ordered and shipped to your door for free in five-to-seven business days. The kit includes a telemedicine consultation. Orders can be shipped within one month of your cruise date. Order your Radeas test kit online.

For U.K.-based guests, Princess recommends an option for an FDA-authorized, medically supervised at-home antigen test kit through our testing partner Prenetics™ (£30 each). Order your Lateral Flow Antigen test kit online.

*This COVID-19 program is available to elegible individuals for $0 out of pocket when billed to a health plan or the government.

Is a self-test acceptable?

Vaccinated guests may use a self-test (sometimes referred to as an at-home test) or rapid antigen self-tests (RATs). If in Australia, RATs are available at most major supermarkets (such as Woolworths of Coles) or chemists/pharmacies (such as Chemist Warehouse or Priceline). Eligible Commonwealth concession card holders can access free RATs (up to 10 RATs over a 3-month period) through community pharmacies. For more information visit the Australia Government Department of Health website.

Will you offer COVID-19 testing near the terminal before my cruise?

No. All guests must have completed their COVID-19 test prior to arriving at the terminal.


What is acceptable proof of a negative COVID-19 test result?

We require all guests to complete the OceanReady steps via the MedallionClass App to simplify the pre-travel process of completing COVID-19 requirements and documentation. You will need to attest you have received a negative COVID-19 test result, provide proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status and to complete the health declaration. Once complete and all details & documents have been verified, you will receive 'Green Lane Ready’ status on the app, which you will need to present at the cruise terminal.

What if I test positive for COVID-19 in my pre-travel COVID-19 test, prior to boarding the ship?

Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will not be permitted to board, together with their family members and close contacts, and should not travel to the ship. In this scenario, you & your travelling party who are denied boarding are entitled to a 100% Future Cruise Credit (FCC).

Guests who travel to the ship but show symptoms of COVID-19, and then test positive in secondary screening in the cruise terminal will be denied boarding, together with their family members and close contacts and will also receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit.


What if I don't get my test results back in time?

All guests must attest that they have returned a negative viral COVID-19 test before embarkation on their Princess cruise.

We understand that it may be difficult for some of our guests to find testing that can provide results within a tight turnaround, or within their travel window. Rapid-Antigen Tests (RATs) are readily available at all major supermarket, pharmacies & airports with results back in as little as 15 minutes. These at home, self-administered tests are the quickest way to return a result and are accepted as requirement for embarkation. RATs are available at most major supermarkets (such as Woolworths or Coles) or chemists/pharmacies (such as Chemist Warehouse or Priceline).

Before You Sail

Will I be able to book multiple cruises, back-to-back?

Yes, guests can book back-to-back voyages, subject to availability.

Guests on back-to-back voyages will receive a complimentary viral COVID-19 test to be completed on their final day before the ship arrives at the terminal. If the returning voyage has visited an international port, then guests will need to disembark the ship at the end of the voyage until approval is given from the local authorities to reboard. If the returning voyage has only visited domestic ports, then guests may remain on board. Guests who are remaining in the same stateroom may leave their luggage on board in either scenario. Guests who are changing stateroom will need to pack their luggage and store with Guest Services to allow for deep cleaning of both staterooms.

Guests who test positive for COVID-19, together with their family members and close contacts who are not fully vaccinated, will either need to serve their 7-day isolation period on board (if the following voyage length allows them to re-join previously planned cruises), or disembark and complete quarantine shoreside either at their own home or at designated onshore hotel quarantine. Guests, their family members, travel companions or other close contacts who are suspected of having COVID-19, are entitled to a 100% Future Cruise Credit (FCC).

Please note, unvaccinated guests will need to apply for an exemption for each voyage they book back-to-back. Exemptions are available on a first-come, first-served basis for guests who can provide medical proof of a contraindication to the COVID-19 vaccine.

We will closely monitor guidance from government and health authorities and will adapt and evolve this policy accordingly.

If I require oxygen and/or dialysis during my cruise, may I still travel?

We welcome guests who use oxygen concentrators and those who are undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Unfortunately we are unable to host guests who are dependent on supplemental oxygen tanks or are undergoing hemodialysis at this time. Our medical experts have determined that, for the guest’s own safety, this is the right decision. We remain optimistic that our approach on future sailings will become more flexible.

Please know that we've had to make some difficult decisions based on general public health guidelines and the overall health and safety of our guests. We did not take any of them lightly.

Will crew be vaccinated?

Yes, our crew will be vaccinated and will receive a booster dose in accordance with U.S. CDC guidelines.

Will I need a passport?

Guests are required to bring all necessary travel documents such as passports (with a minimum of six-months validity after your date of return), visas, proof of citizenship, re-entry permits, or minor's permissions.

Requirements may vary based on guest's nationality, as specified in Travel Document Requirements.

Do I need travel insurance?

Given the current global travel and health environment, all booked guests are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance prior to departure.

Can I book my own transportation to the ship prior to my cruise?

Yes, you may arrange your own transportation to the port; however, you must arrive within your selected time to maintain physical distancing during the check-in and boarding process.

Can I book any hotel stay prior to my cruise?

Yes, you may book lodging at your own discretion, following local guidelines. However, guests must fulfill all requirements for pre-cruise testing and post-cruise as the destination requires.

Guests should check official government websites for the latest requirements of the destination to understand the specific documents and tests may be required upon arrival.

Will I need to complete a health questionnaire or other documentation before boarding?

Yes, you should complete your health questionnaire no later than 24 hours before you embark the ship, using the MedallionClass app. You’ll be asked to confirm your answers when arriving at the terminal.

If you have any symptoms of illness, you will be separated from other embarking guests to undergo a secondary screening. Depending on the outcome of the screening, you and your travel party may be denied boarding.

During a screening, our medical staff will need to verify your health questionnaire answers, or any corrections, and then consider whether to permit you to board.

If you refuse to be tested or screened, or to follow COVID-19 protocols, you will be denied boarding and no refund or credit will be issued.

The results of any COVID-19 tests, and information provided on the health declaration will be subject to the Princess Cruises Privacy Notice and shared only as needed with Princess personnel, third parties or local health authorities as part of screening and embarkation-related health protocols.

Embarkation

Will arrival times be assigned to guests?

We’re requiring all guests to complete online check-in and select an arrival time using the MedallionClass app no later than midnight before their sailing date.

If I am denied boarding at the terminal for failure to produce my proof of vaccine, will you reimburse my out-of-pocket expenses to that point and the cost of my travel home?

There will be a Princess representative on-site at the terminal to support any guests who are denied boarding. However, if you are denied boarding for failure to produce proof of being fully vaccinated at time of embarkation (which means the final dose must have been received at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise), any costs incurred will be at your own expense.

If I forget my proof of vaccination on embarkation day, can I meet the ship at its next port and board there?

Guests who are denied boarding at the embarkation port for lack of vaccination proof within the Medallion Class App may be able to join the ship at another port on the itinerary, subject to the agreement of the port. Guests must meet the same proof of full vaccination as required of them on embarkation day. Any costs incurred will be at the guest’s own expense.

If you fail to take all necessary steps to cruise in line with government guidelines, including proof of vaccination status or a valid medical exemption, you will be denied boarding, and any cost incurred, including cancellation fees and travel back home, will be at your own expense.

If you have already booked your cruise, and you think you will not be able to meet the vaccination requirements, including being able to provide the required proof, please refer to our Book with Confidence policy and contact our Customer Service team or your travel agent.

Onboard Experience

Will I have to wear a face mask?

Masks must be worn by all guests aged 12 years and over during embarkation, disembarkation and in public areas indoors, where physical distancing is not possible. They will also be required on transportation (including water shuttles). Requirements will be clearly designated through signage and onboard communications.

We recommend guests wash or replace their mask daily and choose a good quality mask. Masks should have two or more layers, completely cover the nose and mouth, fit snuggly against the sides of the face and have a nose wire. Please note that visors and face shields will not be accepted as a substitute for a face mask.

We’ll provide complimentary surgical masks on board with replacements available upon request.

Additionally, when going ashore, guests should be prepared to follow all local health guidelines, the status of which will be shared with guests prior to debarkation at the destination.

Guests who have a medical exemption to wearing masks approved by their medical professional must carry a medical certificate dated within 30 days of embarkation with them at all times to verify this, and may be asked to prove their status by crew members.

Will I still be able to enjoy the buffet?

Yes, only now we will have our teammates serve you at some stations. Tables will be cleaned and sanitized upon each use.

How will I make dining reservations?

Guests can reserve dining times for our main dining rooms and specialty restaurants through Dine My Way in the MedallionClass app.

Will you have hand-washing and/or sanitizing stations at dining venues?

Yes, hand-washing and/or sanitizing stations are available outside all dining venues. Crew members may remind you to wash or sanitize your hands upon entering food service areas.

Can I still order room service?

Yes room service will be available for guests. You can access the menus through OceanNow delivery in the MedallionClass app and on stateroom television. You can also pre-order breakfast by filling out a stateroom breakfast card.

Will I still be able to enjoy guest performers, musicians and the like during my cruise?

Absolutely. We will feature entertainment of all kinds – production shows, singers, comedians, musicians, lecturers, arts and crafts, bingo, classes and presentations – as part of your onboard experience.

Do you still host group events?

Larger group events including singing groups, The Voice of the Ocean, behind-the-scenes tours and the Captain’s Champagne Waterfall will not be available during these cruises.

How have health protocols in the Casino been enhanced?

High-touch surfaces, including table game positions, slot machines and cashier areas, undergo enhanced and frequent sanitization.

How have you enhanced health protocols for The Shops?

Guests will enjoy contactless MedallionPay payment for any transaction around the ship and see confirmation of their purchases in their folio. We’re also not allowing guests to try on clothing for sale in the retail shops.

Will you still offer Lotus Spa services?

Yes, onboard spa services are offered, but amenities may require reservations and capacity may be limited.

Services, such as haircuts, manicures and massages, are available for guests to reserve. All stations, treatment rooms and other high touchpoints are sanitized after each use and frequently.

Can I still use the fitness center?

Yes, the fitness center remains open. We recommend you bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated during your workout.

How do you sanitize the fitness center equipment?

We have enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols for the gym, with a focus on frequently touched surfaces. We’re asking guests to clean the equipment after each use, with product disinfection wipes located nearby. Team members will also clean all equipment regularly.

Will my children be able to enjoy Camp Discovery and the teen programs?

Yes, our youth and teen programs still operate, just with enhanced health protocols.

To limit capacity in the centers, entry will be restricted to youth participants. High-touch surfaces, supplies and equipment are sanitized frequently.

How will our staterooms be cleaned?

Stateroom stewards will ask guests at the beginning of the cruise their preferences regarding cleaning frequency: twice a day, skip turndown cleaning or opt not to have any cleaning service during their cruise. Guests can always request cleaning service using the portal outside of the stateroom or through OceanNow in the MedallionClass app.

Will I be able to do my own laundry on board?

Yes, laundromats are available for guests to use.

What requirements are in place for guests who have been approved for a vaccination exemption?

In accordance with health authority directives, all unvaccinated guests must follow these COVID-19 protocols:

  • All guests must take a COVID-19 RT-PCR test performed 72 hours prior to sailing or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) performed 24 hours prior to sailing and have a negative result.
  • You may not be permitted ashore in all ports and, if allowed, guests 12 and older may only go ashore through shore excursions sold by or through Princess using tour operators who comply with our COVID-19 protocols. Self-exploration or participation in shore excursions not sold through or operated by Princess will not be permitted.
  • You may also be required to have a COVID-19 test performed prior to disembarkation.

If you refuse to be tested or screened or to follow COVID-19 protocols, you will be denied boarding, and no refund or credit will be issued.

Anyone who doesn’t comply with the onboard public health measures may be disembarked at the first available opportunity. Other consequences could include being denied service, required stateroom isolation and being banned from sailing in the future. If you are non-compliant, no refund of the cruise fare for unused cruise days or travel expenses (if flying home) will be covered. If your travel party is impacted and/or they are required or voluntarily choose to leave with you, the same policies will apply to them: no refund of cruise fare for unused cruise days or coverage of travel expenses home.

If you feel you need to change your plans after reading these directives for unvaccinated guests, please refer to our Book with Confidence policy for cancellation options.

Health & Safety

What happens if I don’t follow the health protocols?

Anyone who doesn’t comply with the onboard public health measures may be disembarked at the first available opportunity. Other consequences could include being denied service, required stateroom isolation and being banned from sailing in the future.

If you are non-compliant, no refund of the cruise fare for unused cruise days or travel expenses (if flying home) will be covered.

If your travel party is impacted and/or they are required or voluntarily choose to leave with you, the same policies will apply to them: no refund of cruise fare for unused cruise days or coverage of travel expenses home.

How can I safely make an appointment with the Medical Center?

You can request non-urgent appointments by phone or through CrewCall Chat using the MedallionClass app. We use an electronic appointment system to schedule arrival times for non-urgent outpatient consultations. This avoids congregation of patients in the Medical Center and allows the medical staff to pre-determine the best location for the consultation, including your stateroom.

Whenever possible, anyone suspected of COVID-19 will be assessed and treated in their staterooms with all medical first responders wearing full PPE. Medical staff will arrange safe transfer of any unwell individuals to the ship’s Medical Center if additional treatment is required that cannot be provided in the stateroom. Onboard COVID-19-related medical center care and suspected case testing will be free of charge.

If I have COVID-19 symptoms, will I need to be isolated?

Yes, anyone reporting or exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms will be reviewed by the shipboard medical staff and tested for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). COVID-19 cases will be assessed and treated either in their stateroom or in a designated area of the Medical Center in a single occupancy ward.

Positive cases that do not require admission to the ship’s medical center, or medical disembarkation, will most likely be moved to a different stateroom for the duration of isolation.

If you, your family members, travel companions or other close contacts are quarantined or medically isolated during your voyage as a result of a positive COVID-19 test during your cruise or are suspected of having COVID-19, you are entitled to a 100% Future Cruise Credit for missed cruise days, including time in quarantine, for you, your travel party and any confirmed close contacts.

If you have purchased a travel protection plan through us, you and your travel companion may make a claim for a refund under the trip interruption benefit instead of receiving the FCC.

Will testing for COVID-19 be available on board the ship?

Yes, all ships have COVID-19 viral testing capabilities, including SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR, RT LAMP and antigen tests. Protocols for testing for SARS-CoV-2 are based on expert recommendations, including CDC testing guidance. Onboard COVID-19-related medical center care for positive or suspected COVID-19 cases is free of charge.

How do you mitigate and manage COVID-19 cases on board?

We have consulted with leading medical experts to create an extensive response plan for managing COVID-19 cases on our ships.

We have also made arrangements with local port, health and transportation authorities to support our vessels should it become necessary.

In addition to the onboard Medical Center, the shoreside Health Operations Center is staffed 24/7 by our team of dedicated medical and public health professionals.

Does the Medical Center have special enhancements to manage COVID-19 on board?

Every ship has dedicated medical staff (doctors, nurses, etc.) operating ship medical centers to serve guests and crew on board.

They are up to date on the latest COVID-19 scientific status and trained on all relevant COVID-19 procedures.

We’ve enhanced our shipboard medical capabilities with the necessary staffing, medications, supplies, oxygen, equipment and procedures to triage and treat multiple COVID-19 cases across the full clinical spectrum including intensive care.

We’ve also expanded onboard medical roles to include staff responsible for overseeing public health issues, including outbreak prevention and response.

The medical staff requirements and equipment on each ship meet or exceed the guidelines from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Healthcare Guidelines for Cruise Ship Medical Facilities.

How have you improved the onboard HVAC system?

Where possible, we’ve increased outside air to the maximum practical level for each HVAC unit.

HVAC units have been upgraded with F7 (MERV 13) filters, and some units also have the latest generation ultraviolet light (UVC/UVGI) treatment systems to facilitate high quality recirculated air, where possible within design limitations.

The Medical Center has HEPA filtration and is maintained under negative pressure, which means the ventilation system removes more air than it allows into the room.

Shore Visits & Excursions

Can I go ashore during my cruise vacation?

The ability for guests to go ashore in ports of call is controlled by the governments of the ports we visit, based on their specific COVID-19 protocols and requirements. These are subject to change.

We recommend that when going ashore you always carry your proof of vaccination and your negative COVID-19 test results from embarkation.

Guests can explore other destinations on their own or on independent third-party tours. Because this is subject to change at any time, we highly recommend you book shore excursions through Princess, as our teams are in contact with local officials who oversee health and safety standards for these tours.

You can pre-purchase shore excursions through Cruise Personalizer or on board using the MedallionClass app, digital portals or stateroom TV, subject to availability and capacity restrictions.

If you or any members of your party refuse to comply with our COVID-19 policies and procedures, you won’t be allowed to board the ship after going ashore. We may also take other steps that, in our sole discretion, we feel are necessary to protect the health and safety of our guests and crew. If this happens, you will not be entitled to a refund, credit or compensation of any kind and will be responsible for all costs and fines, including (without limitation) travel expenses.

What health and safety measures are in place on shore excursions?

Masks are recommended, but not required, while on shore excursions. They may be required in some ports by local authorities. When going ashore, guests should be prepared to follow all local health guidelines, the status of which will be shared with guests prior to debarkation at the destination. Tour guides, escorts and transport staff are expected to maintain and monitor physical distancing. Staff is trained in these health precautions and will monitor excursions for symptoms of COVID-19 and take appropriate actions.

All vehicles adhere to cruise line and/or local government capacity limitations, whichever is stricter.

Cleaning and disinfection of all guest venues that follow COVID-19 protocols will be performed prior to guest arrival as well as in between groups, with frequent attention to hand contact and high traffic areas. All equipment, such as gloves, safety helmets and life jackets, are fully sanitized before each use.

Please note that these protocols are subject to change as further details are established. They may be updated in accordance with guidance from public health authorities.

What requirements are in place to go ashore for guests who have been approved for a vaccination exemption?

For guests aged 12 years and older, you may not be permitted ashore in all ports and, if allowed, may only go ashore through shore excursions sold by or through Princess using tour operators who comply with our COVID-19 protocols. Self-exploration or participation in shore excursions not sold through or operated by Princess will not be permitted.

Children under 12 who are not fully vaccinated will be permitted to participate in independent shore activities alongside their fully vaccinated parents/guardians.

After you sail

If my home country requires proof of a negative COVID-19 test result for re-entry following my cruise, will Princess administer and cover the cost of the test?

If a negative COVID-19 test is required for re-entry into your home country, Princess will cover the costs of tests, provided guests can show proof that their flight arrangements are the same day as they disembark the ship. Guests will need to make their own test arrangements if onward travel is not the day they disembark. We encourage guests to review their home country’s health authority and travel websites for the latest guidance on required testing and timing for return travel.

If guests would prefer to have the required test completed while still on board, Princess has partnered with Optum so that before traveling to the ship U.S.-based vaccinated guests can order an FDA-authorized at-home antigen test kit, shipped to their homes in three business days or less. Guests can take these tests on the ship, using MedallionNet to complete the required, video-supervised visit with an eMed Certified Guide through telehealth services. These guides help administer the test and verify the results, usually within 15 minutes. The lab result report is delivered by email and can be printed or displayed on your mobile device during check-in. Please place your order with enough time to receive the test at home before going to the ship. Order your test kit online^.


What if I test positive at disembarkation while being tested as a requirement for re-entry to my home country?

Princess will cover change fees and reasonable expenses related to shoreside quarantine and travel home for you and your immediate travel party if not reimbursable from a travel protection plan or other responsible party.

Additionally, any shoreside meals will be covered by Princess with a per diem meal allowance (receipts are not required). We will provide a dedicated Family Assistance liaison for care and logistical shoreside support and offer assistance opening insurance claims for those guests who purchased travel protection.

If you are unable to travel, our Family Assistance department will coordinate lodging and insurance support.

Can I book an extended stay in the embarkation city, following my cruise?

Yes, you may book lodging at your own discretion, following local guidelines.

Check the latest requirements on the destination’s official government website to understand what documents and tests may be required for a post-cruise extended stay.