Are Cruise Lines Sailing in 2021 Find Out Now

Yes, many cruise lines resumed sailing in 2021 with enhanced health protocols, including mandatory vaccinations, frequent testing, and reduced capacity to ensure passenger safety. Major companies like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line restarted operations mid-year, primarily on short itineraries and private destinations, though itineraries and availability varied by region and local regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Many cruise lines resumed sailing in late 2021 with strict health protocols.
• Check vaccination requirements—most lines required full vaccination for passengers and crew.
• Itineraries were modified to comply with port regulations and safety guidelines.
• Flexible booking policies allowed changes or refunds due to COVID-related disruptions.
• Enhanced cleaning and air filtration became standard across major cruise fleets.
• Smaller ships and reduced capacity improved safety and social distancing onboard.

Are Cruise Lines Sailing in 2021? The Definitive Guide

The cruise industry, a cornerstone of global tourism for decades, faced unprecedented disruption in 2020. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, cruise lines around the world suspended operations almost overnight, leaving passengers stranded, itineraries canceled, and the future of sea travel shrouded in uncertainty. Fast forward to 2021, and the question on every traveler’s mind is: Are cruise lines sailing in 2021? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While some regions and companies have cautiously resumed operations, others remain grounded, navigating a complex web of regulations, health protocols, and shifting traveler confidence.

For those dreaming of sun-drenched decks, exotic ports, and all-inclusive luxury, 2021 offered a glimmer of hope—but also a new set of challenges. From mandatory testing and vaccine requirements to limited destinations and enhanced safety measures, cruising in the post-pandemic era is a far cry from the carefree voyages of the past. This comprehensive guide explores the current state of cruise travel, the factors influencing operations, and what passengers can expect when booking a cruise in 2021. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, understanding the landscape is crucial to making informed decisions and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience.

The Global State of Cruise Operations in 2021

The resumption of cruise operations in 2021 was neither uniform nor instantaneous. Different regions, countries, and companies adopted varied approaches based on local regulations, health infrastructure, and traveler demand. Here’s a breakdown of the global landscape:

North America: The No Sail Order and Conditional Sailing

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a No Sail Order in March 2020, effectively halting all cruise operations. By October 2020, the CDC introduced the Framework for Conditional Sailing, a phased approach to restarting cruises. This framework required cruise lines to:

• Conduct mock voyages with volunteer passengers to test health protocols
• Implement rigorous testing and quarantine procedures
• Submit detailed plans for outbreak response and medical care
• Ensure all crew members were fully vaccinated

By mid-2021, several major lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line, began operating limited sailings under this framework. For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Adventure of the Seas” launched a 7-night Caribbean itinerary in June 2021, requiring all passengers and crew to be fully vaccinated and undergo pre- and post-travel testing.

Europe: Gradual Reopening with Regional Differences

Europe’s cruise restart was more fragmented due to varying national policies. Mediterranean countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain reopened ports to cruise ships as early as July 2020, albeit with strict health protocols. In contrast, Northern Europe (e.g., the UK, Germany) took a more cautious approach.

Notably, TUI Cruises (Germany) began domestic “blue cruises” in July 2021, offering 7-night voyages along the Baltic Sea with mandatory vaccination for all passengers. Meanwhile, P&O Cruises (UK) resumed sailings in July 2021, initially restricted to UK residents and requiring full vaccination.

Asia: Limited Operations with Stringent Measures

Asia’s cruise industry faced additional hurdles due to stricter border controls. Singapore launched a “cruise-to-nowhere” program in November 2020, allowing Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas to operate 3-4 night voyages with no port stops. These cruises required:

• Pre-boarding PCR tests
• Mask mandates in public areas
• Reduced capacity (50% of normal)

Japan, however, maintained a near-total ban on cruise ships throughout 2021, citing concerns about new variants.

Key Health and Safety Protocols Implemented by Cruise Lines

To rebuild trust and ensure passenger safety, cruise lines introduced a slew of health and safety measures in 2021. These protocols evolved throughout the year as new variants emerged and scientific understanding of COVID-19 improved.

Vaccination Requirements: A Game-Changer

By mid-2021, most major cruise lines adopted vaccination mandates for both passengers and crew. For example:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Required full vaccination for passengers aged 12+ on all sailings from U.S. ports (exemptions for medical/religious reasons, subject to testing/quarantine).
• Holland America Line: Implemented a “Vaccinated Cruises” program, with 95% of passengers vaccinated.
• Virgin Voyages: Pioneered a “fully vaccinated” policy, requiring 100% vaccination for all passengers and crew.

Tip: Always check a cruise line’s latest vaccination policy—some require boosters for longer voyages or specific destinations.

Testing and Screening Procedures

Pre- and post-travel testing became standard. Common requirements included:

• Pre-embarkation tests: PCR or rapid antigen tests (24-72 hours before boarding).
• Onboard testing: Random or symptom-triggered PCR tests.
• Post-disembarkation tests: Required for some itineraries (e.g., transatlantic cruises).

Royal Caribbean, for instance, offered free PCR tests to passengers at embarkation ports, reducing last-minute stress.

Enhanced Sanitation and Ventilation

To mitigate transmission risks, cruise lines invested heavily in:

• Hospital-grade disinfectants: Used in high-touch areas (elevators, railings, dining tables).
• HEPA air filtration: Installed in HVAC systems to remove airborne particles.
• UV-C light technology: Deployed in public restrooms and medical centers.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore featured an “Air Purification System” with bipolar ionization, claiming to kill 99.9% of pathogens.

Social Distancing and Capacity Limits

While most lines lifted strict social distancing by late 2021, capacity remained reduced on many ships. For example:

• Celebrity Cruises: Limited capacity to 60-70% on initial sailings.
• MSC Cruises: Reduced dining capacity and staggered meal times.

Pro Tip: Book early to secure your preferred cabin—reduced capacity means sell-outs are common.

Popular Cruise Routes and Destinations in 2021

Despite the challenges, 2021 saw the return of some classic itineraries, albeit with modifications. Here are the most popular routes and what made them appealing:

The Caribbean: A Comeback Story

The Caribbean, the world’s most popular cruise region, led the recovery. Key factors included:

• Open ports: Countries like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and St. Maarten reopened early, with streamlined health protocols.
• Short itineraries: 3-5 night “quick getaways” (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay) attracted first-time cruisers.
• Private island stops: Lines like Carnival and Norwegian prioritized private islands (e.g., Half Moon Cay, Harvest Caye), where health controls were easier to enforce.

Example: Carnival’s Horizon offered a 4-night Bahamas cruise with stops at Nassau and Princess Cays, requiring only pre-travel testing and vaccination.

Mediterranean: European Summer Revival

The Mediterranean’s cultural appeal and relaxed summer vibe drew travelers. Popular itineraries included:

• 7-night Western Mediterranean: Stops in Barcelona, Marseille, Rome, and Naples (operated by Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises).
• Greece island-hopping: 10-night cruises to Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete (offered by Celestyal Cruises).

Unique to 2021: Many Mediterranean cruises required proof of vaccination and onshore testing before port visits.

Alaska: Domestic Demand Surge

With international travel restricted, Alaska cruises became a hot commodity. Key features:

• U.S.-only itineraries: 7-night voyages from Seattle to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan (operated by Princess Cruises, Holland America).
• Wilderness focus: Smaller ships (e.g., UnCruise Adventures) offered intimate, nature-focused experiences.

Tip: Book Alaska cruises 12+ months in advance—demand exceeded supply in 2021.

Cruise-to-Nowhere: A Temporary Fix

Regions with closed borders turned to “cruise-to-nowhere” programs. Examples:

• Singapore: 3-4 night Royal Caribbean voyages with no port stops.
• Australia: P&O Cruises’ “Great Barrier Reef Experience” (cancelled due to outbreaks).

While these cruises lacked traditional ports, they offered onboard entertainment, themed nights, and relaxation.

Booking a Cruise in 2021: Tips and Considerations

Booking a cruise in 2021 required extra diligence. Here are the top tips to ensure a smooth experience:

1. Understand the Cancellation Policy

Many lines introduced flexible booking policies, but terms varied widely. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure (for COVID-related reasons).
• Carnival: “Book with Confidence” program allowed changes up to 48 hours pre-cruise.

Warning: Read the fine print—some “free cancellations” only applied to specific scenarios (e.g., positive test results).

2. Verify Health Requirements for Your Itinerary

Rules differed by country. For a 7-night Caribbean cruise, you might need:

• Pre-travel PCR test (U.S. requirement)
• Vaccination proof (Bahamas requirement)
• Onshore rapid test (Jamaica requirement)

Use tools like Cruise Critic’s Health Requirements Guide to track port-specific rules.

3. Pack Smart: COVID-19 Edition

Beyond swimsuits and sunscreen, bring:

• At least 2 PCR tests (in case of delays)
• Digital copies of vaccination records
• Reusable masks (N95/KN95 preferred)
• Hand sanitizer (100ml limit for carry-ons)

4. Choose the Right Cruise Line

Lines catered to different risk tolerances:

• High safety focus: Viking Cruises (100% vaccinated, no unvaccinated children).
• Family-friendly: Disney Cruise Line (mask mandates, reduced capacity).
• Luxury: Regent Seven Seas (all-inclusive, smaller ships).

The Impact of Variants and Outbreaks on 2021 Cruises

Just as the industry began to rebound, new challenges emerged. The Delta and Omicron variants led to:

Port Denials and Itinerary Changes

Even vaccinated ships faced port closures. In July 2021, Norwegian Escape was denied entry to Bermuda due to a crew member testing positive. Similar incidents occurred in:

• Barbados: Refused entry to a Carnival ship (August 2021).
• Mexico: Closed ports to cruise ships temporarily (September 2021).

Tip: Opt for itineraries with multiple backup ports to reduce disruption risks.

Onboard Outbreaks and Quarantines

Despite protocols, outbreaks occurred. A Royal Caribbean cruise in July 2021 saw 48 passengers test positive mid-voyage, prompting a quarantine and early return. Key takeaways:

• Outbreaks were typically contained to small groups.
• Lines had robust response plans (e.g., isolation cabins, medical care).
• Most passengers reported high satisfaction despite disruptions.

Financial and Operational Strain

Frequent cancellations strained cruise lines. Carnival reported a $2.6 billion loss in Q2 2021, while Royal Caribbean laid off 25% of its workforce. To survive, lines:

• Offered steep discounts on future sailings.
• Partnered with governments for testing/vaccine programs.
• Delayed new ship launches (e.g., Carnival’s Costa Toscana).

Cruise Line	First 2021 Sailing Date	Initial Itinerary	Vaccination Requirement	Notable Protocol
Royal Caribbean	June 12, 2021	7-night Caribbean (Adventure of the Seas)	Full vaccination (16+)	Free PCR testing at embarkation
Carnival Cruise Line	July 3, 2021	4-night Bahamas (Horizon)	Full vaccination (12+)	Mask mandates in indoor public areas
Norwegian Cruise Line	July 25, 2021	7-night Alaska (Norwegian Encore)	Full vaccination (12+)	HEPA air filtration + UV-C lighting
MSC Cruises	May 1, 2021	7-night Western Mediterranean (MSC Grandiosa)	No requirement (Italy/France ports)	Onboard PCR testing for all
Princess Cruises	July 25, 2021	7-night Alaska (Majestic Princess)	Full vaccination (12+)	Reduced capacity (60%)

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cruising Beyond 2021

The 2021 cruise season was a pivotal chapter in the industry’s history—a year of cautious optimism, rapid adaptation, and resilience. While challenges like variants and port denials tested the waters, the return of sailings signaled a powerful desire to reconnect with the sea. As we look beyond 2021, several trends are likely to shape the future of cruising:

• Health protocols will remain: Enhanced sanitation, testing, and vaccination requirements may become permanent features, even as pandemic risks fade.
• Demand for flexibility will grow: Travelers now expect lenient cancellation policies and real-time itinerary updates, pushing lines to invest in digital tools.
• Smaller ships and niche markets: The success of “cruise-to-nowhere” and private island stops suggests a shift toward intimate, customizable experiences.
• Technology integration: Contactless check-ins, AI-driven health monitoring, and app-based communication will redefine onboard service.

For passengers, the message is clear: cruising is back, but it’s evolved. Whether you’re drawn to the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, Alaska’s rugged beauty, or Europe’s cultural gems, the key is preparation. Research your line’s policies, pack strategically, and embrace the new normal of health-conscious travel. As the industry sails toward recovery, one thing is certain—the romance of the sea endures, even in the face of uncertainty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines sailing in 2021 after the pandemic?

Yes, many major cruise lines resumed limited operations in 2021, following enhanced health protocols and vaccination requirements. However, itineraries and destinations varied by region and local regulations.

Which cruise lines are sailing in 2021 with safety measures?

Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line were among the first to restart sailings in 2021, implementing strict safety measures like testing, mask mandates, and reduced capacity to protect passengers.

Can I book a cruise for late 2021 with confidence?

Most cruise lines sailing in 2021 offered flexible cancellation policies and health guarantees, making it easier to book with confidence. Always check the line’s specific terms and travel insurance options before purchasing.

Are international cruises available in 2021?

Some international routes resumed in 2021, especially in Europe and the Caribbean, but availability depended on port reopenings and entry requirements. Domestic sailings were more common early in the year.

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

Many cruise lines sailing in 2021 required proof of vaccination for all adult passengers, per CDC and destination guidelines. Unvaccinated travelers often faced additional testing or were denied boarding.

What happens if my 2021 cruise is canceled due to COVID-19?

If your cruise is canceled, most lines offered refunds, future cruise credits, or rebooking options. Always review your cruise line’s COVID-19 policy for details on compensation and timelines.