Are Any Cruise Lines Requiring COVID Vaccine in 2024

As of 2024, most major cruise lines no longer require COVID-19 vaccination for passengers. While policies have largely shifted to recommendations, a few niche or high-end lines may still enforce vaccine mandates based on destination or itinerary—always verify directly before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Most cruise lines no longer require COVID vaccines as of 2024, but policies vary by operator and itinerary.
• Check destination rules before booking—some ports may still enforce vaccination or testing requirements.
• Unvaccinated travelers may face extra testing or documentation, even on relaxed cruise lines.
• Certain luxury or high-risk voyages may mandate vaccines—always verify with the cruise line directly.
• Boosters are rarely required but staying updated is recommended for international travel flexibility.
• Mask policies are now rare, but bring one if you’re in high-risk groups or crowded areas.

The New Normal at Sea: Are Cruise Lines Still Requiring the COVID Vaccine in 2024?

The cruise industry, once brought to a near standstill by the global pandemic, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few years. As international travel resumed, cruise lines were among the first to implement strict health and safety protocols, with mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations at the forefront. In 2020 and 2021, nearly every major cruise line—from Carnival to Royal Caribbean to Norwegian—required passengers and crew to be fully vaccinated before boarding. These policies were hailed as essential to restoring consumer confidence and ensuring onboard safety. But as the world transitions into a post-pandemic era, with public health guidance evolving and new variants becoming less severe, travelers are asking: Are any cruise lines still requiring the COVID vaccine in 2024?

This question is more than just a logistical concern—it’s a reflection of shifting attitudes toward public health, personal freedom, and the normalization of travel. For families planning long-awaited vacations, retirees seeking safe getaways, and adventure-seekers eyeing exotic destinations, understanding current vaccination policies is crucial. The answer isn’t as simple as a “yes” or “no” across the board. Policies now vary significantly by cruise line, destination, itinerary length, and even the time of year. Some lines have dropped all requirements, while others maintain strict protocols, particularly for sailings to regions with high infection rates or for high-risk passengers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the current landscape of cruise vaccination mandates, what to expect in 2024, and how to prepare for a smooth and safe cruise experience.

Current State of Cruise Vaccination Policies in 2024

As of 2024, the cruise industry has largely moved away from universal vaccine mandates, but the situation remains nuanced. While most major cruise lines have relaxed or eliminated their vaccination requirements, certain exceptions and conditional policies remain in place. These changes reflect updated guidance from health authorities such as the CDC, WHO, and individual governments, as well as the cruise lines’ own risk assessments based on passenger demographics, itinerary, and port regulations.

Major Cruise Lines That No Longer Require Vaccination

The vast majority of U.S.-based and international cruise lines have officially dropped mandatory vaccination requirements for most sailings. This includes:

• Carnival Cruise Line: As of April 2023, Carnival no longer requires passengers to be vaccinated. However, unvaccinated travelers may be subject to additional testing or denied boarding at certain foreign ports.
• Royal Caribbean International: Vaccination is no longer mandatory for most sailings. Unvaccinated guests must present a negative PCR or antigen test within 72 hours of embarkation, depending on the itinerary.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL lifted its vaccine mandate in June 2023. Unvaccinated passengers must complete a health questionnaire and may need to take a pre-travel test.
• MSC Cruises: No vaccination requirement for most sailings, but unvaccinated guests may face restrictions in certain ports, especially in the Mediterranean and Asia.
• Princess Cruises: Vaccination is no longer required, but the line recommends it for all guests, particularly those over 65 or with underlying health conditions.

These changes signal a broader shift toward treating cruise travel like other forms of international tourism, where vaccination is encouraged but not enforced.

Lines That Still Require Vaccination Under Specific Circumstances

Despite the trend toward relaxation, a few cruise lines and itineraries still enforce vaccine mandates. These are typically tied to:

• Itineraries to high-risk or regulated destinations: Some countries, such as Canada (for Arctic and Alaska cruises), New Zealand, and certain Pacific Island nations, still require proof of vaccination for entry.
• Longer voyages (e.g., world cruises, transoceanic sailings): For cruises lasting 14+ days, lines like Holland America and Cunard may require vaccination due to the extended time at sea and limited medical access.
• Cruises marketed to high-risk demographics: Some luxury and wellness-focused lines, such as Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn, maintain vaccination recommendations or requirements for older passengers or those with health concerns.

For example, Holland America Line requires all guests on its 2024 Grand Voyages (21+ days) to be fully vaccinated. Similarly, Oceania Cruises mandates vaccination for its longer sailings, including repositioning cruises and world cruises.

Regional and Port-Specific Requirements

Even if a cruise line doesn’t require vaccination, individual ports of call may have their own rules. For instance:

• Cruises visiting Canada (especially Vancouver and ports in the Inside Passage) require all passengers to be vaccinated, regardless of the cruise line’s policy.
• Some Caribbean nations, like Bermuda and the Cayman Islands, may deny entry to unvaccinated travelers, even if the cruise line allows them to board.
• European Union countries generally do not require vaccination for entry as of 2024, but individual ports may request proof of vaccination during health screenings.

Travelers should always check the entry requirements of each port, not just the cruise line’s policy, to avoid being denied disembarkation.

Why Some Cruise Lines Are Still Requiring Vaccination

While the majority of cruise lines have moved away from blanket mandates, the few that maintain vaccination requirements do so for compelling reasons. These policies are not arbitrary—they are grounded in public health, operational logistics, and legal considerations.

Protecting Vulnerable Passengers

Cruise ships are closed environments with shared ventilation systems, dining halls, and entertainment venues. This makes them high-risk settings for disease transmission, especially among older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. According to the CDC, cruise passengers over 65 are at significantly higher risk for severe outcomes from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. Lines like Cunard and Silversea have cited this demographic risk as a primary reason for maintaining vaccination requirements on select sailings. For example, Cunard’s 2024 World Cruise enforces vaccination for all guests, noting that the average age of passengers exceeds 60 and the voyage spans over 100 days.

Compliance with International Health Regulations

Some destinations still enforce strict health entry rules. For instance, Australia and New Zealand require all arriving travelers, including cruise passengers, to be vaccinated. If a cruise line operates in these waters, it must comply with local laws. Failure to do so could result in the entire ship being quarantined or denied entry—costing millions in lost revenue and passenger goodwill. As a result, lines like P&O Cruises Australia and Princess Cruises continue to require vaccination for voyages in the South Pacific and Trans-Tasman routes.

Reducing Medical Burden at Sea

Medical facilities on cruise ships are limited. A single outbreak of a contagious illness can overwhelm onboard infirmaries, leading to quarantines, itinerary changes, and emergency evacuations. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalizations, and the need for medical evacuations. For long-duration cruises—such as Norwegian Cruise Line’s 21-day repositioning voyages from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean—vaccination is seen as a critical layer of protection. The line’s policy states: “To ensure the health and safety of all guests and crew, we strongly recommend vaccination for sailings of 14 days or longer.”

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Insurance companies and legal advisors often recommend vaccination policies to mitigate liability. If a cruise line allows unvaccinated passengers on a long voyage and a major outbreak occurs, the company could face lawsuits from affected guests. By requiring vaccination, cruise lines reduce their legal exposure and demonstrate due diligence in protecting public health. This is particularly important for luxury lines with high-profile clientele, where a single incident could damage brand reputation.

Passenger Confidence and Booking Trends

Some cruise lines have found that vaccinated passengers are more likely to book and feel safe onboard. A 2023 survey by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) found that 68% of travelers said vaccination requirements made them more comfortable booking a cruise. For lines targeting health-conscious or older demographics, maintaining vaccination policies can be a competitive advantage. For example, Regent Seven Seas Cruises reports that over 90% of its guests are vaccinated, and the line uses this fact in marketing materials to attract similar travelers.

How to Verify a Cruise Line’s Vaccination Policy

With policies constantly changing, it’s essential to verify the current requirements for your specific cruise. Relying on outdated information or general statements can lead to denied boarding or unexpected testing costs. Here’s how to get accurate, up-to-date information.

Check the Official Cruise Line Website

Every major cruise line maintains a dedicated health and safety page on its website. Look for sections titled:

• “Health & Safety Protocols”
• “Travel Requirements”
• “Vaccination Policy”
• “Pre-Cruise Testing Information”

For example, Royal Caribbean’s health page is updated weekly and includes a “Traveler Health Form” that outlines requirements by itinerary. Similarly, Carnival provides a “Know Before You Go” checklist that specifies testing and vaccination rules based on departure port, destination, and passenger status.

Contact the Cruise Line Directly

If the website is unclear or your situation is unique (e.g., you’re partially vaccinated, have a medical exemption, or are traveling with children), call the cruise line’s customer service. Ask specific questions like:

• “Do I need to be fully vaccinated for this itinerary?”
• “What constitutes ‘fully vaccinated’? Do boosters count?”
• “What happens if I’m unvaccinated? Are there testing requirements?”
• “Will I be allowed to disembark at each port?”

Keep a record of the conversation, including the agent’s name and reference number, in case of disputes later.

Consult a Travel Advisor or Cruise Specialist

Experienced travel agents, especially those certified by CLIA, have access to real-time policy updates and can help navigate complex itineraries. They often receive direct communications from cruise lines about changes and can provide personalized advice. For example, a travel agent might warn you that while your cruise to Alaska doesn’t require vaccination, the port of Skagway, Alaska, has a local ordinance requiring it.

Verify Port Entry Requirements

Use official government resources to check each destination’s rules:

• CDC Travel Health Notices (cdc.gov/travel)
• U.S. Department of State Country Information (travel.state.gov)
• International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Centre (iata.org/travelcenter)

These sites provide the latest entry requirements, including vaccination, testing, and quarantine rules.

Prepare Documentation

Even if not required, carry:

• Digital or printed copy of your vaccination certificate (e.g., CDC card, EU Digital COVID Certificate)
• Negative test results (if unvaccinated)
• Proof of medical exemption (if applicable)
• Travel insurance that covers pandemic-related cancellations

Many cruise lines now use mobile check-in apps that allow you to upload health documents in advance, speeding up boarding.

What to Do If You’re Unvaccinated: Testing, Exemptions, and Alternatives

If you’re not vaccinated, don’t assume you can’t cruise. Many lines have established alternative pathways for unvaccinated passengers, but these come with additional steps and potential limitations.

Pre-Travel Testing Requirements

Most cruise lines that allow unvaccinated passengers require a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of embarkation. Some may require a second test before boarding or at the port. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Unvaccinated guests must take a test 3 days before departure and may be retested at the terminal.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Requires a negative test within 3 days of sailing; rapid antigen tests are accepted.
• Carnival: Unvaccinated guests must test 3 days before sailing and may be subject to random testing onboard.

Testing can add $100–$200 per person to the trip cost, so factor this into your budget.

Medical and Religious Exemptions

Cruise lines generally allow exemptions for medical or religious reasons, but the process is strict:

• Medical Exemptions: Must be submitted with a letter from a licensed physician explaining the health condition and why vaccination is contraindicated. The cruise line may require additional testing or impose restrictions (e.g., no indoor dining).
• Religious Exemptions: Requires a notarized statement detailing the religious belief. Some lines, like Celebrity Cruises, have denied religious exemptions if the belief is not part of an established religion.

Exemptions are not guaranteed and may result in limited onboard activities or port access.

Alternative Cruise Options

If your preferred cruise line doesn’t accommodate unvaccinated travelers, consider:

• Shorter cruises (3–5 days): These are less likely to have strict requirements.
• River cruises in Europe: Lines like AmaWaterways and Viking have relaxed policies and focus on outdoor excursions.
• Domestic U.S. cruises: Many Gulf Coast and West Coast sailings have minimal restrictions.
• Private charters or yachts: Offer full control over health protocols.

Future Outlook: Will Vaccine Mandates Return?

As 2024 progresses, the cruise industry is closely monitoring global health trends. While vaccine mandates are currently rare, they could return under certain conditions.

Potential Triggers for Reinstatement

• Emergence of a severe new variant: If a variant causes high hospitalization rates, cruise lines may reinstate mandates to protect passengers and crew.
• Government mandates: If the U.S. or foreign governments reimpose travel restrictions, cruise lines would comply.
• Outbreaks on ships: A major outbreak could lead to public backlash and policy reversal.
• Seasonal surges: Lines may temporarily require vaccination during winter months when respiratory illnesses peak.

Industry Trends and Passenger Preferences

Cruise lines are increasingly using data analytics to predict demand and adjust policies. For example, MSC Cruises uses AI to monitor booking patterns and may introduce vaccination requirements for specific sailings based on passenger demographics. Additionally, as more travelers prioritize wellness and health safety, lines may market “vaccinated-only” sailings as premium experiences.

The Role of Boosters and Updated Vaccines

Even without mandates, cruise lines are encouraging up-to-date vaccination, including boosters. The CDC recommends that travelers be “up to date” with COVID-19 vaccines, meaning they’ve received the most recent booster available. Some lines, like Disney Cruise Line, have started offering on-site vaccination clinics at ports to make it easier for guests to stay current.

Conclusion: Navigating the 2024 Cruise Landscape

In 2024, the era of universal cruise vaccine mandates has largely ended, but the conversation around health and safety at sea is far from over. While most cruise lines no longer require vaccination, policies remain dynamic and context-dependent. Whether you’re vaccinated or not, the key to a successful cruise is proactive research, thorough preparation, and flexibility.

Start by checking the official health page of your cruise line and each destination port. If unvaccinated, be ready for testing requirements and potential limitations. Consider working with a travel advisor to navigate complex itineraries. And always pack essential health documentation, including vaccination records and test results.

The cruise industry has learned valuable lessons from the pandemic. Today’s policies reflect a balance between public health and personal freedom—one that allows millions to enjoy the open sea with confidence. As the world continues to adapt, cruise lines will remain vigilant, ready to adjust protocols as needed. But for now, the message is clear: You can cruise in 2024, with or without the vaccine—just be informed, be prepared, and be ready for adventure.

Cruise Line	Vaccine Required?	Unvaccinated Policy	Notes
Carnival	No (most sailings)	Test within 72 hours; random testing onboard	Port-specific rules may apply
Royal Caribbean	No	Test within 72 hours; possible port denial	Alaska cruises may have stricter rules
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	Test within 3 days; health questionnaire	Longer voyages may require vaccination
Holland America	Yes (Grand Voyages only)	Not allowed on 21+ day cruises	Vaccination required for world cruises
MSC Cruises	No	Test if unvaccinated; port restrictions	Asia/Mediterranean ports may deny entry
Regent Seven Seas	Yes (recommended)	Testing required; limited activities	Marketing to health-conscious travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any cruise lines requiring COVID vaccine in 2024?

As of 2024, most major cruise lines have dropped mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements, but a few niche or international operators may still enforce them. Always verify directly with the cruise line before booking.

Which cruise lines still require the COVID vaccine?

Smaller luxury lines or those sailing to regions with strict health regulations (e.g., Antarctica or select Asian itineraries) may still require proof of vaccination. Examples include certain sailings with Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten.

Do I need a booster shot to cruise in 2024?

Booster requirements are rare, but some cruise lines may ask for up-to-date vaccinations, especially for high-risk destinations. Check the line’s policy for specifics on “fully vaccinated” definitions.

Can I cruise without a COVID vaccine in 2024?

Yes, most mainstream cruise lines (e.g., Royal Caribbean, Carnival) no longer require COVID vaccines. However, unvaccinated passengers might face additional testing or documentation rules.

Are cruise lines requiring COVID vaccine for kids?

Children’s vaccination policies mirror adult rules: most lines don’t require it, but exceptions exist for specific itineraries. Unvaccinated minors may need pre-travel testing.

Do I need to show proof of COVID vaccine for international cruises?

Some countries (e.g., Canada, Japan) may still require vaccination for entry, affecting cruise itineraries. Always confirm destination-specific rules, as cruise lines often follow local regulations.