Are Cruise Lines Open for 2021 Find Out Now

Yes, many major cruise lines reopened in 2021 with enhanced safety protocols, including mandatory vaccinations, pre-trip testing, and reduced capacity sailings. Popular operators like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian resumed select voyages from U.S. and international ports by mid-year—though itineraries and availability varied by region and health guidelines. Always check your line’s latest policies before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines resumed operations by late 2021 with enhanced safety protocols.
• Check vaccination requirements—most lines required full vaccination for passengers and crew.
• Flexible booking policies offered free cancellations or credits for COVID-related disruptions.
• Shorter itineraries and domestic sailings were prioritized to minimize health risks.
• Mask mandates and testing were enforced on most ships and ports of call.
• Verify port availability—some destinations remained closed or restricted to cruise traffic.

Are Cruise Lines Open for 2021? Find Out Now

The cruise industry, once a booming sector of global tourism, faced an unprecedented halt in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For many travelers, the idea of setting sail on a luxurious ocean liner seemed like a distant dream as ships remained docked, itineraries were canceled, and safety protocols were reevaluated. However, as vaccines rolled out and travel restrictions began to ease, a pressing question emerged: Are cruise lines open for 2021? The answer is not a simple yes or no—it’s a dynamic landscape of phased reopenings, conditional sailings, and evolving health measures. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, understanding the current status of cruise lines is essential for making informed decisions.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the state of the cruise industry in 2021. From major cruise operators to regional sailings, we’ll explore who’s sailing, where they’re going, and how they’re ensuring passenger safety. We’ll also examine the impact of new regulations, the rise of “bubble cruises,” and what to expect if you’re considering booking a trip. With a blend of real-world examples, expert insights, and practical tips, this post will help you navigate the waters of post-pandemic cruising with confidence. So, let’s set sail into the details and answer the burning question: Are cruise lines open for 2021?

1. The Global State of Cruise Lines in 2021

Phased Reopenings and Conditional Sailings

The reopening of cruise lines in 2021 was far from uniform. Unlike land-based tourism, which could gradually resume with local guidelines, cruise operations faced stricter scrutiny due to the confined nature of ships and international regulations. Most major cruise lines adopted a phased approach to restarting operations, prioritizing crew vaccinations, crew-only trial voyages, and limited-capacity sailings before opening to the general public.

For example, Royal Caribbean International began its phased return in June 2021 with the Freedom of the Seas sailing from Miami to the Bahamas with fully vaccinated crew and volunteers. Similarly, Carnival Cruise Line launched its first post-pandemic cruise in July 2021 with the Horizon from Miami, carrying vaccinated passengers only. These “test sailings” were crucial to demonstrate compliance with CDC guidelines and build consumer confidence.

Geographic Variability in Reopening

Reopening timelines varied significantly by region. The Caribbean, a hub for North American cruises, saw a faster return due to proximity and established health partnerships. In contrast, European and Asian cruise markets faced delays due to stricter national regulations and slower vaccine rollouts. For instance:

• Mediterranean Cruises: MSC Cruises resumed sailings in August 2021 from Italy, requiring passengers to be vaccinated and present negative PCR tests.
• Alaskan Cruises: Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises began limited Alaska itineraries in July 2021, but only after securing a temporary exemption from the CDC’s Conditional Sailing Order due to Canada’s port closure policies.
• Australia: The cruise industry remained largely suspended until late 2021, with no international sailings until 2022.

CDC and International Regulations

In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) played a pivotal role in shaping cruise reopenings. The Conditional Sailing Order (CSO), introduced in October 2020, outlined a four-phase framework for resuming operations:

1. Testing crew members and establishing onboard medical facilities.
2. Conducting simulated voyages with volunteer passengers.
3. Applying for a COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate.
4. Resuming revenue-generating sailings under strict health protocols.

By mid-2021, over 20 cruise ships had received CSO certification, allowing them to operate at 70–90% capacity with vaccinated passengers. However, unvaccinated travelers faced additional restrictions, such as mandatory testing and quarantine protocols.

2. Major Cruise Lines: Who’s Sailing and Where?

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean emerged as a leader in the 2021 restart, launching multiple ships across the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Key highlights include:

• Freedom of the Seas: First to sail from Miami (June 2021) with 1,000 vaccinated volunteers.
• Odyssey of the Seas: Debuted in July 2021 from Fort Lauderdale, offering 6-night Caribbean itineraries.
• Symphony of the Seas: Began Mediterranean sailings from Barcelona in October 2021.

The line implemented the “Vaccinated Sailings” program, requiring all crew and passengers over 12 to be vaccinated. Unvaccinated guests (e.g., children under 12) were allowed but required to undergo daily testing and wear masks in indoor public areas.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival resumed operations in July 2021 with the Horizon from Miami. By October, 12 ships were sailing, including the Breeze (Galveston) and Panorama (Los Angeles). Carnival’s “Vaccination Policy” mandated:

• Full vaccination for passengers aged 12+.
• Pre-cruise PCR testing within 72 hours.
• Onboard medical centers with COVID-19 testing capabilities.

Notably, Carnival introduced “Carnival Luminosa,” a new ship repositioned from P&O Cruises Australia to serve the U.S. market, showcasing adaptability amid global disruptions.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian prioritized Alaska and the Caribbean in 2021. The Encore began 7-night Alaska cruises in July, while the Gem offered Caribbean sailings from New York. Norwegian’s “Peace of Mind” policy included:

• Mandatory vaccination for all passengers and crew.
• Enhanced air filtration systems (MERV-13 filters).
• Flexible cancellation policies for COVID-related disruptions.

The line also partnered with local governments to ensure port access, such as negotiating with Canadian authorities for Alaskan itineraries.

MSC Cruises

MSC, a European leader, resumed sailings in August 2021 with the Divina in the Mediterranean. The line’s “MSC Health & Safety Protocol” featured:

• Pre-boarding PCR/antigen testing.
• Onboard contactless services (e.g., digital menus, app-based excursions).
• Dedicated medical staff and isolation cabins.

MSC also pioneered “MSC Grand Voyages,” longer itineraries targeting vaccinated travelers seeking extended escapes.

Smaller and Luxury Lines

While major lines dominated headlines, smaller operators also resumed sailings:

• Virgin Voyages: Launched its first cruise in August 2021 with the Scarlet Lady, requiring full vaccination.
• Seabourn: Restarted Mediterranean and Caribbean sailings in July 2021 with enhanced sanitation.
• Oceania Cruises: Offered “Vaccinated-Only” voyages to Greece and the Caribbean.

3. Health and Safety Protocols: What to Expect Onboard

Vaccination Requirements

By mid-2021, vaccination was the cornerstone of cruise safety. Most lines adopted a “vaccinated-only” policy for passengers aged 12+ (and sometimes 5+). Exceptions were rare and often required:

• Medical exemptions with documentation.
• Strict testing protocols (e.g., daily antigen tests).
• Mask mandates in indoor spaces.

For example, Disney Cruise Line required all passengers 12+ to be vaccinated and provided a “Vaccination Verification Portal” for pre-cruise uploads.

Testing and Screening

Pre-cruise testing became standard. Passengers typically needed:

• A PCR test within 72 hours of boarding (or antigen within 24 hours).
• Health questionnaires and temperature checks at embarkation.
• Onboard rapid testing for symptomatic guests.

Royal Caribbean, for instance, offered complimentary PCR tests for unvaccinated children, reducing logistical burdens for families.

Onboard Sanitation and Ventilation

Cruise lines invested heavily in hygiene upgrades:

• Enhanced Cleaning: Electrostatic sprayers and hospital-grade disinfectants.
• Air Filtration: MERV-13 filters and increased air exchange rates.
• Contactless Technology: Mobile check-in, digital menus, and app-based service requests.

Carnival’s “Cleanliness Champions” program trained staff in advanced sanitation techniques, while Norwegian installed UV-C light systems in ventilation ducts.

Medical Facilities and Isolation

Ships now feature:

• Dedicated isolation cabins for COVID-positive guests.
• Onboard labs for rapid PCR testing.
• Partnerships with local hospitals for emergency evacuations.

MSC Cruises, for example, equipped ships with “Health Hubs” staffed by doctors and nurses trained in pandemic response.

4. The Rise of “Bubble Cruises” and Alternative Itineraries

What Are Bubble Cruises?

“Bubble cruises” emerged as a pandemic-era innovation—short, closed-loop itineraries with strict health protocols to minimize risk. These sailings:

• Operate in “bubbles” of vaccinated passengers.
• Visit private islands or low-risk destinations (e.g., Nassau, CocoCay).
• Limit or eliminate port calls to reduce community exposure.

Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise to Nowhere” itineraries from Miami to CocoCay (their private island) became a model for safe, enjoyable experiences.

Private Islands and Controlled Destinations

Private islands played a critical role in 2021 reopenings. Examples include:

• CocoCay (Royal Caribbean): Enhanced sanitation, reserved beaches for cruise guests.
• Half Moon Cay (Holland America): Reduced capacity and contactless excursions.
• Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian): Vaccination requirements for all visitors.

These destinations allowed lines to control the environment, ensuring compliance with health guidelines.

Alternative Itineraries: River and Coastal Cruises

River cruise lines like Viking and AmaWaterways resumed operations in 2021 with “vaccinated-only” sailings on European waterways. Coastal cruises (e.g., American Queen Steamboat Company) also gained popularity, offering:

• Smaller ships (50–200 passengers).
• Domestic itineraries with fewer international risks.
• Flexible booking policies.

5. Booking Tips and Consumer Considerations

Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policies

Given the uncertainty of 2021, cruise lines introduced unprecedented flexibility:

• Royal Caribbean: “Cruise with Confidence” allowed cancellations up to 48 hours before departure.
• Carnival: “Book with Confidence” offered free changes or cancellations for COVID-related reasons.
• Norwegian: “Peace of Mind” policy covered cancellations due to government travel advisories.

Tip: Always read the fine print. Some policies required documentation (e.g., a positive test) for refunds.

Insurance and Travel Protection

Travel insurance became essential. Look for policies covering:

• Trip cancellation due to COVID-19.
• Medical expenses (including evacuation).
• Quarantine costs (e.g., extended stays).

Companies like Allianz and Travel Guard offered “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) add-ons, providing extra flexibility.

Timing and Pricing

2021 saw fluctuating prices due to demand and capacity limits. Early bookings (6–12 months in advance) often secured lower rates, while last-minute deals emerged as lines filled unsold cabins. However, prices surged during peak periods (e.g., holidays).

Destination Research

Before booking, verify:

• Port entry requirements (e.g., testing, vaccination).
• Local COVID-19 rates.
• Excursion availability (some ports restricted access).

Websites like Cruise Critic and the CDC’s Travel Health Notices provided up-to-date information.

6. The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Cruising?

2022 and Beyond

By late 2021, most major lines had resumed 50–70% of their fleets, with full recovery expected by 2023. Key trends include:

• Hybrid Policies: Some lines (e.g., MSC) allowed unvaccinated children with testing, while others remained vaccinated-only.
• New Ships: Carnival’s Mardi Gras and Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas debuted with pandemic-era safety features.
• Digital Innovation: Contactless check-in, AI-powered health monitoring, and app-based excursions became standard.

Long-Term Impacts

The pandemic reshaped the industry:

• Health as a Priority: Enhanced sanitation and medical facilities are now permanent features.
• Consumer Trust: Transparency about protocols became critical for brand loyalty.
• Sustainability: Lines accelerated investments in eco-friendly technologies (e.g., LNG-powered ships).

Data Table: 2021 Cruise Line Reopening Status (Select Operators)

Cruise Line	First 2021 Sailing	Region	Vaccination Policy	Capacity
Royal Caribbean	June 12, 2021	Caribbean	12+ must be vaccinated	70–90%
Carnival	July 3, 2021	Caribbean	12+ must be vaccinated	75%
Norwegian	July 25, 2021	Alaska	All passengers must be vaccinated	80%
MSC	August 16, 2021	Mediterranean	12+ must be vaccinated	85%
Virgin Voyages	August 6, 2021	Caribbean	All passengers must be vaccinated	100% (limited)

The cruise industry’s 2021 reopening was a testament to resilience, innovation, and adaptability. While challenges like the Delta variant and port closures caused setbacks, the phased, science-driven approach ensured a safer return. For travelers, the message is clear: Yes, cruise lines are open for 2021—but with new rules, enhanced safety, and a focus on flexibility. Whether you’re drawn to the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, Europe’s cultural gems, or the thrill of a private island getaway, the seas are calling. With careful planning, informed choices, and a spirit of adventure, your next cruise could be the start of a new era in travel. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines open for 2021 after the pandemic?

Yes, many major cruise lines resumed operations in 2021 with enhanced health protocols, though itineraries and availability vary by region and destination. Some sailings were delayed or modified to comply with local regulations.

Which cruise lines are open for 2021 bookings?

Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line are among the operators offering 2021 departures, with select ships sailing from ports like Miami and Seattle. Check each line’s official website for real-time updates on open cruise lines for 2021.

Do I need a vaccine to sail on open cruise lines in 2021?

Most cruise lines open for 2021 require full vaccination for passengers and crew, along with pre-travel testing. Policies may differ for families with unvaccinated children, so review specific line requirements before booking.

Are 2021 cruises safe with COVID-19 protocols?

Open cruise lines for 2021 implemented rigorous measures like mask mandates, air filtration upgrades, and contact tracing to minimize risks. While no environment is 100% safe, these steps significantly reduce COVID-19 exposure.

Can I cancel my 2021 cruise if cases rise?

Many cruise lines open for 2021 offer flexible cancellation policies, including refunds or credits for COVID-related changes. Review your line’s terms and consider travel insurance for added protection.

Are international cruises available in 2021?

Limited international sailings resumed in 2021, with options like Mediterranean and Caribbean routes, but some destinations remained restricted. Verify port entry rules and quarantine requirements for open cruise lines in 2021.