Is the best time to go on cruises during the pandemic?

Concerns over cruise ship safety and cleanliness submerged the industry during the early days of the pandemic; an unfortunate downturn in an industry already prone to bad news by design (Legionnaires’ disease and unpredictable seas come to mind).

However, like most industries during the pandemic, the cruise industry and individual cruise lines have begun rolling out comprehensive guides on how they plan to tackle these challenges and protect their vacationers.

Per Cruise Critic: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to progress around the world, cruise lines are rolling out detailed health and safety protocols that will allow them to safely resume service.

Not only that but the CDC has offered a thorough list of ways to protect yourself and others when taking a cruise. Still not certain about your prospects of enjoying fun in the sun any time soon? Carry on below the list to find out the next best choice.

CDC guidelines for cruises during the pandemic:

• Do not board a cruise if you are sick, if you know you have COVID-19, or if you were exposed to a person with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
• Discuss cruise ship travel with your healthcare provider. Older adults and people of any age with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of severe illness if infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
• Stay at least 6 feet/2 meters (about 2 arm lengths) from anyone who is not traveling with you. It’s important to do this everywhere—both indoors and outdoors.
• Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when you are in shared spaces, including when using public transportation.
• Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
• Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Do not travel if you are sick.
• If you get sick with symptoms of COVID-19, stay in your cabin and notify the onboard medical center immediately.

Delayed Vacation? Not a problem.

One of the best decisions you could make when scheduling your next vacation is forecasting. Since you’re reading an article about taking a cruise in the pandemic, chances are that you want sun and ocean waves to accompany you while you relax.

Rather than rushing into a less fulfilling vacation now, consider scheduling your cruise vacation for later this year when COVID-19 vaccinations are set to reach a majority of people. Several services offer easy access to affordable, high-quality cruise lines and destinations. 

Here are some great services for every kind of cruise you could be seeking.

• Find cruises for seniors.
• Go on a mediterranean cruise.
• Want something more landlocked? Why not a Mississippi River Cruise?
• Or, if sun and sand isn’t your thing, find great Alaskan cruises.