Cruise ship guidance from the CDC

On Oct. 30, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a conditional sailing order for cruise ships operating or seeking to operate in U.S. waters. The order introduces a phased approach for resuming passenger cruises.

Passenger operations continue to be suspended during the initial phases of the order. The initial phase requires crew screening to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 among all crewmembers currently on cruise ships in U.S. waters.

At press time, the CDC still recommends avoiding any travel on cruise ships worldwide, including river cruises, because the risk of COVID-19 on cruise ships is very high. It is especially important that people with an increased risk of severe illness avoid travel on cruise ships, including river cruises.

The order will remain in effect until whichever comes first:

• The expiration of the secretary of health and human services’ declaration that COVID-19 constitutes a public health emergency;

• The CDC director rescinds or modifies the order based on specific public health or other considerations; or

• Nov. 1, 2021.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

By Professional Mariner Staff