Are Cruise Lines Open 2022 Find Out Which Ships Are Sailing Now

Yes, most major cruise lines resumed operations in 2022, with a wide range of ships sailing globally after pandemic-related pauses. From Carnival to Royal Caribbean, enhanced health protocols and updated itineraries made cruising safer and more appealing for eager travelers. Check specific line schedules and vaccination requirements, as policies continue to evolve by region and departure date.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines resumed operations by mid-2022 with enhanced safety protocols.
• Check itinerary updates frequently due to last-minute port changes or cancellations.
• Vaccination and testing requirements vary by line—verify before booking.
• Smaller ships and private charters offer more flexible, less crowded alternatives.
• Travel insurance is essential to cover pandemic-related disruptions or health needs.
• Book 2022 sailings early to secure preferred dates and cabins amid high demand.

Are Cruise Lines Open 2022? Find Out Which Ships Are Sailing Now

The cruise industry, one of the hardest-hit sectors during the global pandemic, has made a remarkable comeback in 2022. After a prolonged period of suspended operations, port closures, and health-related restrictions, cruise lines around the world are once again setting sail. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, the question on everyone’s mind is: Are cruise lines open in 2022? The answer is a resounding yes—but with nuances.

With over 200 cruise ships back in service by mid-2022 and more joining the fleet every month, the industry is not only operational but also innovating with enhanced safety protocols, flexible booking policies, and new destinations. From luxury ocean liners to river cruises and expedition vessels, the variety of available itineraries is expanding rapidly. However, the return to normalcy has been gradual, and understanding which cruise lines are sailing, where they’re going, and what rules apply is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the current state of the cruise industry, highlight which major lines and ships are operating, and provide practical advice to help you plan your next voyage with confidence.

The Global Reopening of the Cruise Industry in 2022

The year 2022 marked a turning point for the cruise sector. After nearly two years of near-total shutdown, cruise lines began resuming operations in a phased and cautious manner. This revival was driven by declining infection rates, increased vaccination coverage, and the implementation of robust health and safety frameworks. While some regions reopened earlier than others, by mid-2022, most major cruise destinations were accessible again.

Timeline of Reopening: A Phased Approach

The return of cruising didn’t happen overnight. It followed a phased timeline:

• January–March 2022: Initial sailings resumed in the Caribbean, with lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival offering short cruises from Florida. These early voyages were limited to vaccinated passengers and included strict testing requirements.
• April–June 2022: European and Mediterranean routes opened, including sailings from Spain, Italy, and Greece. River cruises on the Rhine and Danube also restarted.
• July–September 2022: Alaska, Canada, and the Pacific Northwest saw a surge in cruise activity. Major ports like Vancouver, Juneau, and Seattle welcomed back large ships.
• October–December 2022: Transatlantic repositioning cruises, holiday-themed sailings (e.g., Christmas and New Year’s), and repositioning voyages to Asia and the South Pacific resumed.

This gradual rollout allowed cruise lines to test protocols, adapt to evolving health guidelines, and rebuild consumer confidence. By year-end, over 85% of the global cruise fleet was operational, according to CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association).

Key Drivers Behind the Reopening

Several factors contributed to the successful reopening of cruise lines in 2022:

• Enhanced Health Protocols: Mandatory pre-cruise testing, onboard medical facilities, and improved ventilation systems became standard.
• Flexible Booking Policies: Most lines introduced free cancellations or credits for up to 14–30 days before departure, reducing traveler anxiety.
• Destination Cooperation: Countries like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Greece worked closely with cruise operators to streamline port entry and health checks.
• Consumer Demand: Pent-up demand from travelers eager to explore led to high booking volumes, especially for 2023 itineraries.

These efforts helped restore trust and demonstrated that cruising could be both safe and enjoyable in the post-pandemic era.

Which Major Cruise Lines Are Currently Sailing?

By late 2022, nearly all major cruise brands had resumed operations, though some ships remained in dry dock for refurbishments or were deployed to new markets. Below is a breakdown of the key players and their current sailing status.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival, the world’s largest cruise operator, had 24 out of 27 ships back in service by December 2022. Popular vessels like the Carnival Breeze, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Mardi Gras (its first LNG-powered ship) were offering 3–7 day Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston. Carnival also resumed Alaska cruises with the Carnival Spirit sailing from Seattle.

Key features:

• Pre-cruise testing required for unvaccinated guests
• Mask policies relaxed on most voyages
• Expanded dining and entertainment options

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean led the charge in innovation, with 26 ships sailing by Q4 2022. The Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas—the world’s largest cruise ships—offered 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes. The line also launched new itineraries in Europe, with the Anthem of the Seas based in Southampton for UK and Northern Europe sailings.

Notable offerings:

• Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise with Confidence” program allowed free changes up to 48 hours before departure
• Onboard medical centers equipped with PCR testing
• Expanded private island experiences in CocoCay (Bahamas)

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL had 17 ships in operation, including the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss. The line focused on longer itineraries, such as 10–14 day voyages to the Mediterranean and transatlantic crossings. NCL also resumed Alaska cruises from Seattle and Vancouver.

Highlights:

• “Free at Sea” promotion with free airfare, drinks, and specialty dining
• Reduced capacity on select sailings for enhanced guest experience
• New health screening app for contactless check-in

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, known for its Alaska and Mediterranean offerings, had 14 ships sailing by late 2022. The Discovery Princess, launched in 2022, offered 7-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Los Angeles. The line also expanded its “MedallionClass” technology, which enables touchless check-in, keyless stateroom entry, and personalized service.

Key facts:

• Alaska season ran from May to September, with over 100 sailings
• Onboard PCR testing available for international disembarkation
• Partnerships with local communities to support sustainable tourism

Smaller and Luxury Lines

Beyond the big names, luxury and expedition lines also made a strong comeback:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All 6 ships sailing, with the Seven Seas Splendor offering 14-night Caribbean and transatlantic voyages.
• Oceania Cruises: 8 ships in service, including the Insignia and Riviera, focusing on longer, destination-rich itineraries.
• Silversea: 11 ships, including the Silver Dawn, with Arctic and Antarctic expeditions resuming.
• Lindblad Expeditions: Partnered with National Geographic, offering eco-focused voyages to Alaska, Galápagos, and Patagonia.

Current Health and Safety Protocols on Cruise Ships

One of the most significant changes in 2022 was the adoption of comprehensive health and safety measures. Cruise lines worked with global health authorities, including the CDC and WHO, to create frameworks that minimized risk while preserving the cruise experience.

Mandatory Pre-Cruise Testing

Most cruise lines required a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 1–3 days before boarding. For example:

• Carnival: PCR test required for unvaccinated passengers; antigen test for vaccinated guests
• Royal Caribbean: PCR test for all guests over 12, regardless of vaccination status
• NCL: Antigen test for vaccinated guests; PCR for unvaccinated

Some lines, like Virgin Voyages, offered free testing at embarkation ports to streamline the process.

Onboard Medical and Ventilation Systems

Ships were equipped with:

• Dedicated medical centers with isolation units
• Advanced HVAC systems with HEPA filters and increased fresh air circulation
• Contactless temperature checks at key entry points
• Enhanced cleaning protocols, especially in high-touch areas like elevators and restrooms

Royal Caribbean, for instance, upgraded its ventilation systems to exceed CDC standards, achieving a 99.99% removal rate of airborne particles.

Vaccination and Mask Policies

Vaccination requirements varied by line and itinerary:

• Fully vaccinated: Required for most sailings, with proof of vaccination (e.g., CDC card or digital pass)
• Unvaccinated: Allowed on some ships with additional testing and quarantine protocols
• Mask mandates: Relaxed on open decks and in outdoor venues; required indoors in crowded areas on select lines

By late 2022, many lines had moved to recommended rather than mandatory masking, aligning with local public health guidelines.

Shore Excursion and Port Protocols

To reduce exposure, cruise lines implemented:

• Private or guided shore excursions with limited group sizes
• Health screenings for local tour operators
• Contactless check-in at ports with digital health forms

For example, Princess Cruises’ “MedallionClass” app allowed guests to book excursions, view port arrival times, and receive health alerts—all from their phone.

Popular Cruise Destinations and Itineraries in 2022

With ports reopening worldwide, cruisers had access to a diverse range of destinations. Some regions saw faster recovery than others, influenced by local regulations and traveler preferences.

The Caribbean and Bahamas

The Caribbean remained the most popular region, accounting for over 40% of all sailings in 2022. Key ports included:

• Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral (Florida): Hubs for Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian
• Nassau, Freeport (Bahamas): Frequent stops with private island access (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, Carnival’s Half Moon Cay)
• San Juan (Puerto Rico), St. Thomas (USVI): Popular for longer itineraries and cultural experiences

Itineraries ranged from 3–7 days, with many lines offering “cruise-to-nowhere” options for quick getaways.

Alaska and the Pacific Northwest

Alaska’s 2022 season was one of the most successful in years, with over 1.5 million visitors. Key routes included:

• 7-day round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan
• Scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier
• Onshore excursions like dog sledding, glacier hiking, and wildlife viewing

Lines like Princess and Holland America offered themed voyages with onboard naturalists and cultural programs.

Europe and the Mediterranean

European cruising rebounded strongly, with sailings from Barcelona, Rome, and Athens. Popular itineraries included:

• 7–14 day Western Mediterranean (Spain, France, Italy, Monaco)
• Eastern Mediterranean (Greece, Turkey, Croatia)
• Northern Europe (UK, Norway, Iceland, Baltic states)

River cruises on the Rhine, Danube, and Douro also saw high demand, with companies like Viking and AmaWaterways operating at near-full capacity.

Exotic and Expedition Cruising

For adventurous travelers, 2022 offered:

• Galápagos Islands: Small-ship expeditions with Lindblad and Celebrity
• Antarctica: Silversea and Hurtigruten resumed summer voyages
• Southeast Asia: Limited sailings from Singapore and Thailand, with strict health checks
• Australia and New Zealand: Domestic cruises resumed, with international routes expected in 2023

Tips for Booking and Cruising in 2022

Navigating the new cruise landscape requires planning and awareness. Here are essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Book Early and Choose Flexible Options

With high demand, early booking is critical—especially for peak seasons (summer, holidays). Look for:

• Lines with free change or cancellation policies (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s 48-hour window)
• “Price protection” guarantees that offer refunds if fares drop
• Deposit-free booking options for peace of mind

For example, Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” program allowed guests to lock in perks like free airfare and specialty dining, even if they booked months in advance.

Prepare for Health Requirements

Before departure:

• Check the cruise line’s official website for the latest testing and vaccination rules
• Download required apps (e.g., Carnival’s Hub, Royal Caribbean’s app)
• Carry digital and physical copies of your vaccination card and test results
• Pack extra masks, hand sanitizer, and rapid tests for emergencies

Tip: Some lines offer pre-cruise testing at the terminal—verify availability to avoid last-minute stress.

Choose the Right Itinerary for Your Comfort Level

Consider:

• Short cruises (3–5 days): Ideal for first-timers or those with limited time
• Longer voyages (7+ days): Offer more destination variety but require more planning
• Private island stops: Lower risk due to controlled environments (e.g., CocoCay)
• Expedition cruises: Smaller ships, fewer passengers, and remote destinations may feel safer

Maximize Onboard Experience

Even with health protocols, cruise ships offer world-class amenities. To get the most out of your trip:

• Reserve dining and spa appointments early
• Attend onboard lectures, shows, and enrichment programs
• Use contactless services (e.g., digital menus, mobile check-in)
• Stay informed via the cruise line’s app or daily newsletter

Travel Insurance and Emergency Planning

Given the uncertainty, comprehensive travel insurance is a must. Look for policies that cover:

• Trip cancellation or interruption due to illness
• Medical evacuation and quarantine expenses
• Coverage for missed port calls or itinerary changes

Companies like Allianz and Travel Guard offer “cancel for any reason” add-ons for extra flexibility.

Current Operational Status of Major Cruise Lines (December 2022)

Below is a summary of major cruise lines and their 2022 operational status, including number of ships sailing and key itineraries.

Cruise Line	Ships in Service	Key Itineraries	Testing Required	Mask Policy (Indoors)
Carnival Cruise Line	24/27	Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska	PCR (unvaccinated), Antigen (vaccinated)	Recommended
Royal Caribbean	26/26	Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Transatlantic	PCR (all guests over 12)	Recommended
Norwegian Cruise Line	17/17	Mediterranean, Caribbean, Alaska	Antigen (vaccinated), PCR (unvaccinated)	Recommended
Princess Cruises	14/15	Alaska, Mediterranean, Caribbean	Antigen (all guests)	Recommended
Regent Seven Seas	6/6	Caribbean, Europe, Transatlantic	PCR (all guests)	Optional
Oceania Cruises	8/8	Europe, South Pacific, Caribbean	Antigen (all guests)	Optional
Silversea	11/11	Antarctica, Mediterranean, Arctic	PCR (all guests)	Optional

Conclusion

So, are cruise lines open in 2022? Absolutely. The industry has not only reopened but is thriving, with a vast majority of ships back at sea and new itineraries being added regularly. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean to the icy fjords of Alaska and the cultural capitals of Europe, cruisers have an abundance of choices. While health protocols remain in place, they are increasingly streamlined and less intrusive, allowing travelers to focus on the joy of exploration.

The key to a successful 2022 cruise lies in preparation: book early, stay informed about health requirements, and choose itineraries that match your comfort level. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend escape or a month-long adventure, the seas are open, and the ships are ready. With enhanced safety measures, flexible policies, and a renewed passion for travel, 2022 marked the beginning of a new golden age of cruising. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and set sail—your next unforgettable journey awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines open in 2022 after the pandemic?

Yes, most major cruise lines reopened in 2022 with enhanced health protocols. Operations resumed gradually, with many ships sailing at reduced capacity to ensure passenger safety.

Which cruise lines are open in 2022?

Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and MSC Cruises all resumed operations in 2022. Each line offers select itineraries, so check their websites for current sailings and destinations.

Are cruise lines open 2022 with vaccination requirements?

Most cruise lines required proof of vaccination in 2022, though rules varied by company and itinerary. Some also mandated pre-travel testing, even for vaccinated guests.

Can I book a cruise for 2022 if ships are open?

Yes, many cruise lines offered 2022 sailings with flexible booking policies. Look for promotions with free cancellations or date changes to accommodate last-minute changes.

Are international cruise lines open in 2022?

Many international cruise lines, including Costa and P&O Cruises, resumed operations in 2022. However, destinations and entry requirements varied by country, so research port-specific rules before booking.

Are river cruise lines open in 2022 too?

Yes, river cruise lines like Viking and Avalon Waterways reopened in 2022 with smaller ships and fewer passengers. European river cruises were especially popular, with strict onboard safety measures.