Norwegian Cruise Line To Drop Covid-19 Vaccination, Masking, And Testing Mandates

Norwegian Cruise Line reported Monday that it had started easing its COVID-19 safety measures on its vessels by dropping the need for testing, masking, and vaccination, as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic loosens its grip over the world.

The decisions made by the cruise line come after several nations lifted testing needs for international air travellers as individuals return to their pre-pandemic lifestyles across the globe.

The cruise line, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, said even with the easing of health and safety protocols, which will be effective on 4 October, it’d continue to abide by travel guidelines as mandated by the destinations it visits.

The cruise industry was among the worst hit during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as nations went into a lockdown to curb the spread of the deadly virus. However, with everything reopening in the world, the sector reflects signs of stability and drops critical COVID-19 testing needs.

The cruise operator mentioned in August that it had been relaxing the safety measures for vaccinated passengers on Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises starting in September.

Royal Caribbean Group and Rivals Carnival Corp have also introduced mandatory testing for guests who revaccinated against ongoing COVID-19 on some cruise lines.

Shares of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings were up almost 3% each in the morning trading, while Carnival’s shares were down by 1%.

References: Forbes, Reuters