Are Cruise Lines Sailing Again Find Out the Latest Updates

Yes, major cruise lines are sailing again with enhanced health protocols and updated itineraries following global port reopenings. Most ships resumed operations by 2023, offering vaccinated sailings and flexible booking policies to ensure passenger safety and confidence. Check your preferred line’s latest guidelines before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines have resumed sailing with updated health protocols.
• Check vaccination requirements before booking—many lines mandate full vaccination.
• Enhanced safety measures include improved air filtration and sanitization.
• Flexible cancellation policies offer peace of mind for uncertain travelers.
• Destinations vary widely—confirm itineraries due to port restrictions.
• Book early for deals as demand surges and capacity remains limited.

The Return of Cruising: What You Need to Know

Remember that feeling of standing on the deck of a cruise ship, the salty breeze in your hair, the horizon stretching endlessly in every direction? For many, cruising isn’t just a vacation—it’s an escape, a way to unplug and reconnect with the world (and yourself). But after a global pause, you might be wondering: are cruise lines sailing again? The short answer? Yes, but not quite how we remember it.

Like many industries, cruising faced a massive reset. Ships went quiet, itineraries were canceled, and travelers were left wondering when—or if—they’d ever sail again. But the tide has turned. Cruise lines are back on the water, adapting to new health protocols, evolving traveler expectations, and a world that’s forever changed. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or someone eyeing their first voyage, understanding the current landscape is key. In this post, we’ll dive into the latest updates, what’s changed, and what you should know before booking your next adventure. Think of this as your friendly, no-nonsense guide to the new era of cruising—because yes, the ships are sailing, but the rules of the game have shifted.

Are Cruise Lines Sailing Again? The Current Status

Global Resumption: A Phased Approach

After a nearly 18-month pause, cruise lines began a cautious return to service in mid-2021. The process wasn’t a single grand reopening—it was a phased, region-by-region rollout. For example, Celebrity Cruises resumed U.S. sailings in June 2021 with a seven-day trip from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean. Meanwhile, P&O Cruises in the UK started domestic “cruises to nowhere” (sailings that stay within UK waters) as early as May 2021, before expanding to international routes.

The key word here is gradual. Lines didn’t rush back. Instead, they prioritized:

• Health and safety certifications: Many partnered with local governments to meet strict health guidelines.
• Limited capacity: Ships often sailed at 50–70% occupancy to allow for social distancing.
• Short itineraries: Three- to five-day trips were common, reducing risk and logistical complexity.

By late 2022, most major lines—including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC—had resumed operations in key markets like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska. As of 2024, over 90% of the global fleet is back in service, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Regional Differences: Not All Waters Are the Same

While the U.S. and Europe led the comeback, some regions lagged. For instance:

• Asia-Pacific: Countries like China and Japan were slower to reopen due to stricter border controls. Some lines, like Dream Cruises, resumed domestic sailings in 2022 but only expanded internationally in 2023.
• Australia: Cruising resumed in late 2022 after a two-year ban, with Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas launching a Sydney-based season.
• South America: Brazil and Argentina reopened in 2023, with lines like Holland America offering repositioning cruises.

Tip: Always check the destination’s entry requirements. Some countries still require proof of vaccination, while others have no restrictions at all.

The Role of “Sail Safe” Protocols

Every major cruise line now has a “Sail Safe” or “Healthy Sail” program. These aren’t just marketing buzzwords—they’re real, science-backed initiatives. For example:

• Royal Caribbean uses a multi-layered approach: mandatory vaccinations for crew and passengers (in most cases), HEPA-filtered air systems, and rapid testing onboard.
• Carnival Cruise Line requires pre-cruise testing for unvaccinated guests and offers contactless check-in via their mobile app.

The goal? To minimize risk without sacrificing the fun. And so far, the results are promising. CLIA reports that the rate of COVID-19 cases onboard is 0.03%—lower than many land-based resorts.

What’s Changed: The New Cruise Experience

Health and Safety: Beyond the Basics

Remember the buffet? The crowded pool deck? The packed Broadway-style shows? Some of those pre-pandemic staples are gone—or at least transformed.

• Dining: Buffets are now staffed (you point, they serve), and many restaurants offer pre-packaged meals or QR code menus.
• Entertainment: Shows are still happening, but with reduced seating. Some lines, like Norwegian, use timed entry to avoid crowds.
• Sanitization: High-touch areas (elevator buttons, handrails) are cleaned hourly. Some ships even use UV-C light technology.

But it’s not all restrictions. Cruise lines have also added enhanced medical facilities onboard, including isolation rooms and telemedicine services. And many now offer travel insurance partnerships that cover pandemic-related cancellations.

Flexibility: The New Booking Norm

One of the biggest shifts? Flexibility. Cruise lines know travelers want options, so they’ve made it easier to change or cancel bookings.

• Royal Caribbean: Offers “Cruise with Confidence”—free changes up to 48 hours before departure.
• Celebrity Cruises: Allows one free change within 30 days of sailing, plus a “Lift & Shift” option to move your trip to next year.
• MSC Cruises: Provides a “MSC Future Cruise Credit” if you need to cancel due to illness.

Tip: Read the fine print. Some flexible policies apply only to specific booking types (e.g., “Cruise Only” vs. “Air + Cruise” packages).

Technology: Smarter Ships, Smarter Travel

Tech is playing a bigger role than ever. From check-in to disembarkation, cruise lines are using apps and wearables to streamline the experience.

• Royal Caribbean’s WOWband: A wristband that acts as your room key, payment method, and boarding pass.
• Carnival’s HUB App: Lets you book excursions, order room service, and even check wait times for the buffet.
• Norwegian’s RFID Keycards: Contactless entry to cabins and onboard venues.

The result? Less time waiting in lines, more time enjoying the trip.

Who’s Sailing? A Look at Major Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival was one of the first to return, launching its “Great Cruise Comeback” in July 2021. As of 2024, all 24 ships are sailing, with a focus on the Caribbean and Mexico. Their “Sail Safe” program includes:

• Mandatory vaccination for crew and most passengers.
• Pre-cruise testing for unvaccinated guests.
• Enhanced air filtration and medical staffing.

Pro tip: Carnival’s “Early Saver” deals often include free cancellations—ideal for uncertain times.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean’s “Healthy Sail Panel” (co-chaired by a former U.S. Surgeon General) set the gold standard for safety. Their ships now feature:

• Contactless check-in and boarding.
• Onboard testing labs for rapid results.
• Expanded outdoor spaces (e.g., the “SeaPlex” indoor sports complex).

They’ve also introduced new itineraries, like “Perfect Day at CocoCay”—a private island with zip lines and water parks.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian’s “Peace of Mind” policy lets you cancel up to 48 hours before departure. Their ships use:

• HEPA-filtered air systems.
• UV-C light disinfection in high-traffic areas.
• Dedicated medical isolation zones.

They’re also leaning into freestyle cruising—no fixed dining times, more open-air venues, and flexible dress codes.

MSC Cruises

MSC’s “MSC Shield” program combines:

• Pre-cruise health screenings.
• Onboard testing capabilities.
• Enhanced sanitation protocols.

They’ve also invested in smaller, more intimate ships (like the MSC Seaview), which offer a less crowded experience.

Smaller Lines: A Different Approach

Smaller lines like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas are focusing on luxury and exclusivity. For example:

• Oceania: All-inclusive fares with free shore excursions and premium beverages.
• Regent: No single supplements on select sailings, making it ideal for solo travelers.

These lines often sail at lower capacity, offering a more personalized experience.

Booking Your Cruise: Tips and Considerations

When to Book: Timing Matters

Want the best deal? Book early—but not too early. Here’s the sweet spot:

• 12–18 months out: Best for popular itineraries (e.g., Alaska in summer, Caribbean over Christmas).
• 6–9 months out: Good for last-minute deals or repositioning cruises.
• 2–4 months out: Risky, but sometimes you’ll find deep discounts (especially for off-season sailings).

Example: A seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon in December 2024 is already 70% booked by May 2024. But a similar trip in October 2024 still has plenty of availability.

What to Pack: The New Essentials

Your cruise packing list needs a refresh. Add these items:

• Rapid tests: Some lines require them before boarding.
• Portable sanitizer: Even with onboard cleaning, it’s handy for excursions.
• Mask (optional): While not required on most ships, it’s good to have for crowded ports.
• Travel insurance: Look for policies that cover pandemic-related issues.

Choosing the Right Itinerary

Not all cruises are created equal. Ask yourself:

• What’s the ship’s capacity? Smaller ships (under 3,000 guests) feel less crowded.
• What ports are included? Some destinations (e.g., St. Thomas, Santorini) can get overcrowded.
• What’s the onboard experience? Do you prefer a lively party atmosphere or a quiet, relaxed vibe?

Tip: Research port arrival/departure times. A 7 AM arrival in Nassau means you’ll have the beaches to yourself—until the day-trippers arrive.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cruising

Sustainability: A Growing Priority

Cruise lines are under pressure to reduce their environmental impact. Many are investing in:

• Liquefied natural gas (LNG) ships: Cleaner-burning fuel (e.g., Carnival’s Mardi Gras).
• Onshore power: Ships plug into port electricity to reduce emissions while docked.
• Waste reduction: Single-use plastics are banned on many lines.

MSC, for example, aims to have a net-zero emissions ship by 2050.

New Ships and Routes

The industry isn’t just recovering—it’s evolving. In 2024, we’ll see:

• Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas: The world’s largest cruise ship, with a “thrill island” waterpark.
• Norwegian’s Norwegian Viva: A sleek, eco-friendly ship with an open-air promenade.
• New destinations: Lines are exploring less-visited ports like Belize, the Azores, and Greenland.

The Role of Technology

Expect more AI, more automation, and more personalization. For example:

• AI concierges: Chatbots that answer questions and make recommendations.
• Virtual reality: Pre-trip “tours” of your cabin or ship.
• Biometric boarding: Facial recognition to speed up embarkation.

The goal? To make cruising safer, smoother, and more memorable.

Data Table: Cruise Line Health & Safety Comparison (2024)

Cruise Line	Mandatory Vaccination	Pre-Cruise Testing	HEPA Air Filters	Flexible Booking
Carnival	Yes (except for medical exemptions)	Unvaccinated guests only	Yes	Free changes up to 24h before
Royal Caribbean	Yes (most sailings)	Unvaccinated guests + some itineraries	Yes	Free changes up to 48h before
Norwegian	No (as of 2024)	Unvaccinated guests only	Yes	Free changes up to 48h before
MSC	Yes (most sailings)	All guests on select itineraries	Yes	Free changes up to 30 days before

Final Thoughts: Is Cruising Right for You Now?

So, are cruise lines sailing again? Absolutely. And while the experience has changed, the magic of cruising—the sense of adventure, the breathtaking destinations, the sheer joy of being at sea—remains. The key is to go in with your eyes open. Do your research, understand the rules, and choose a line and itinerary that match your comfort level.

For some, the new protocols feel like overkill. For others, they’re a relief—a sign that the industry is taking health seriously. Either way, the world is opening up, and the ships are waiting. Whether you’re craving a tropical escape, a cultural deep dive, or just a chance to unplug, there’s never been a better time to set sail. Just remember: the waves won’t wait, but your peace of mind should. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines sailing again in 2024?

Yes, most major cruise lines are sailing again in 2024 with updated health protocols and flexible booking policies. Check individual cruise line websites for specific itineraries and regional availability.

Which cruise lines are currently operating?

Popular cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess Cruises are actively sailing, though routes may vary by destination. Always verify the latest updates, as some regions may still have restrictions affecting certain cruise lines sailing schedules.

Do I need to be vaccinated to board a cruise ship?

Many cruise lines require full vaccination for all passengers, but policies vary by company and departure port. Unvaccinated guests may need to provide negative COVID-19 test results or purchase additional insurance.

Are cruise ships safe to sail on right now?

Cruise ships have implemented enhanced sanitation, air filtration, and medical facilities to ensure passenger safety. The CDC and other agencies monitor cruise lines to maintain high health standards.

What happens if my cruise gets canceled due to COVID-19?

Most cruise lines offer refunds, future cruise credits, or flexible rebooking options if your sailing is canceled. Review your cruise line’s policy for details on their latest cancellation and compensation terms.

Can I sail to international destinations with cruise lines?

Yes, many cruise lines are sailing to international destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska, though entry rules may vary by country. Confirm vaccination, testing, and documentation requirements before booking.