Are Cruise Lines Still Requiring Covid Vaccines in 2024

Most major cruise lines no longer require COVID-19 vaccinations for passengers in 2024, as health protocols have relaxed globally. However, some sailings—especially international or high-risk itineraries—may still enforce vaccine mandates based on local regulations or cruise line discretion, so check directly before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Vaccine rules vary: Check each cruise line’s policy before booking.
• Proof required: Some lines still demand vaccination records for boarding.
• Boosters may be mandatory: Confirm if additional doses are needed.
• Exemptions exist: Medical or religious waivers may apply—ask early.
• Destinations matter: Ports may impose stricter rules than the cruise line.
• Stay updated: Policies change frequently—verify before departure.

Are Cruise Lines Still Requiring Covid Vaccines in 2024? The Definitive Guide

As the world gradually returns to pre-pandemic normalcy, the cruise industry has been navigating a complex and ever-changing landscape of health and safety protocols. One of the most pressing questions for travelers planning a cruise vacation in 2024 is: Are cruise lines still requiring Covid vaccines? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it’s a nuanced mix of policy changes, regional variations, and evolving guidelines from health authorities.

Since the onset of the pandemic, cruise lines were among the first to implement strict health measures, including mandatory vaccination policies, to ensure passenger and crew safety. In 2021 and 2022, most major cruise operators required full vaccination for all eligible guests. However, as global infection rates declined and public health guidance shifted, many lines began to relax or eliminate these requirements. By 2024, the situation is more fluid than ever. Some cruise lines still require vaccines, particularly for international voyages or specific itineraries, while others have fully dropped mandates. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the current state of vaccine policies across major cruise lines, explain what to expect before, during, and after your cruise, and offer practical tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable vacation—no matter your vaccination status.

Current State of Cruise Line Vaccine Policies in 2024

The cruise industry has undergone a significant transformation in its approach to Covid-19 safety. In 2024, the majority of cruise lines have moved away from mandatory vaccination policies for most itineraries, especially domestic and short-haul cruises. However, the landscape is not uniform—policies vary by company, region, and even individual ship or route. Understanding these differences is crucial for travelers.

Major Cruise Lines and Their 2024 Vaccine Requirements

Below is a breakdown of how leading cruise operators are handling vaccine mandates as of early 2024:

• Carnival Cruise Line: As of January 2024, Carnival no longer requires proof of vaccination for most sailings. However, unvaccinated guests may face additional testing requirements (e.g., pre-cruise and mid-cruise PCR or antigen tests) and are subject to restrictions in certain ports of call.
• Royal Caribbean International: Vaccination is no longer mandatory for most voyages, but unvaccinated passengers must provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of embarkation. Some international itineraries (e.g., transatlantic or cruises to countries with strict entry rules) may still require vaccination.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL has eliminated mandatory vaccination for all sailings. However, unvaccinated guests must complete a health questionnaire and may be required to test before boarding. Certain destinations (e.g., Greece, Italy, or Canada) may enforce their own entry rules, which could indirectly require vaccination.
• Princess Cruises: Vaccination is not required for most U.S. and Caribbean cruises. However, for international itineraries—especially those involving multiple countries—vaccination may still be necessary to comply with port regulations.
• MSC Cruises: MSC has dropped mandatory vaccination for most sailings. However, for cruises in Europe and the Mediterranean, where EU Digital Covid Certificates were once required, unvaccinated guests may need to present a negative test or proof of recovery.
• Disney Cruise Line: Disney continues to recommend vaccination but does not require it for most voyages. Unvaccinated guests must complete a health screening and may be subject to testing protocols. Disney also reserves the right to change policies based on local regulations.
• Celebrity Cruises: Vaccination is no longer mandatory, but unvaccinated passengers must provide a negative PCR test within 72 hours of embarkation. This applies to all sailings, including those departing from U.S. ports.

Exceptions and Special Cases

While most mainstream cruise lines have relaxed vaccine mandates, there are notable exceptions:

• Long-haul and repositioning cruises (e.g., transatlantic, transpacific, or world cruises) often still require vaccination due to the extended duration and multiple international stops. For example, Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossings still mandate vaccination for all guests over 12.
• Smaller luxury and expedition lines (e.g., Seabourn, Silversea, Lindblad Expeditions) may maintain stricter policies to protect older or medically vulnerable passengers. These lines often cater to high-net-worth travelers and prioritize health and safety above all.
• Cruises to specific destinations may be subject to local laws. For instance, cruises calling in Canada, Australia, or parts of Asia may still require vaccination for disembarkation, regardless of the cruise line’s policy.

Why Policies Are Changing

The shift away from mandatory vaccination reflects several factors:

• High global vaccination rates and improved immunity.
• Declining hospitalization and death rates from Covid-19.
• Pressure from travelers who are unvaccinated or prefer not to disclose their status.
• Alignment with broader public health guidance, such as the CDC’s 2023 recommendation that cruise ships no longer need to report Covid cases.
• Competitive pressure—cruise lines want to attract a wider demographic, including families with unvaccinated children.

How Vaccine Policies Affect Your Cruise Experience

Even if a cruise line no longer requires vaccination, your vaccination status can still impact your travel experience in meaningful ways. From pre-cruise preparations to on-board activities and port excursions, being unvaccinated may come with additional steps and potential limitations.

Pre-Cruise Testing Requirements

One of the most common consequences of being unvaccinated is the need for pre-cruise testing. Most cruise lines that have dropped vaccine mandates still require unvaccinated guests to provide a negative test result. Here’s what you need to know:

• Type of test: Most lines accept either a PCR test or a supervised rapid antigen test (e.g., via telehealth platform like eMed or CVS). Home tests without supervision are typically not accepted.
• Timing: Tests must be taken within 72 hours of embarkation. Some lines, like Royal Caribbean, require testing within 2 days of departure.
• Cost: You are responsible for the cost of testing. PCR tests can range from $50 to $200, while telehealth antigen tests cost around $100–$150.
• Documentation: You’ll need to upload test results to the cruise line’s online check-in portal. Failure to do so may result in denied boarding.

Tip: Schedule your test well in advance and use a reliable provider. Delays or invalid results can jeopardize your entire trip.

On-Board Restrictions for Unvaccinated Passengers

While most cruise lines don’t segregate unvaccinated guests, there may be subtle differences in access or experience:

• Health screenings: Unvaccinated guests may undergo additional health checks at embarkation, including temperature checks and health questionnaires.
• Mask policies: While masks are no longer required on most ships, unvaccinated passengers may be encouraged or required to wear masks in high-traffic areas (e.g., elevators, medical centers) during outbreaks.
• Excursion limitations: In some ports, local authorities may restrict access to certain attractions or require proof of vaccination for entry. Cruise lines may not offer alternative excursions, leaving unvaccinated guests with fewer options.
• Medical isolation protocols: If an unvaccinated passenger tests positive onboard, they may face stricter isolation requirements and higher medical costs.

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Travel insurance becomes even more critical if you’re unvaccinated. Most standard policies exclude coverage for pandemics or vaccine-related issues. However, some providers offer “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) add-ons that can protect you if you decide not to travel due to health concerns or policy changes.

• Check your policy to see if it covers trip interruption, medical evacuation, or quarantine expenses related to Covid-19.
• Consider CFAR coverage if you’re concerned about last-minute changes to vaccine or testing rules.
• Review cruise line cancellation policies—many now offer flexible booking options, but non-refundable deposits may still apply.

Regional and International Variations in Cruise Vaccine Rules

One of the most complex aspects of cruise travel in 2024 is the patchwork of regional and international regulations. Even if your cruise line doesn’t require vaccination, you may still need to comply with rules set by the countries you’ll be visiting. This is especially true for international itineraries.

North America: U.S. and Canada

In the United States, cruise lines operate under CDC guidelines, which no longer require vaccination or routine testing for most sailings. However, the CDC still recommends vaccination for all eligible passengers. The U.S. has no federal entry requirements related to Covid-19.

Canada is a different story. While Canada dropped its vaccine mandate for entry in 2022, individual provinces and port cities may still enforce their own rules. For example:

• Cruises calling in Vancouver may require unvaccinated guests to test before disembarking.
• Some Canadian attractions (e.g., museums, restaurants) may still ask for proof of vaccination.

Tip: Always check the official website of the port city or province you’ll be visiting for the latest entry requirements.

Europe: EU and Non-EU Countries

The European Union no longer requires proof of vaccination for entry, but individual countries may have their own rules. For example:

• Italy: No vaccine mandate, but unvaccinated travelers may need to test before entering certain venues.
• France: No restrictions, but some cruise excursions (e.g., to the Louvre) may require health passes during outbreaks.
• Norway and Iceland: No vaccine requirements, but unvaccinated guests may face testing at border checkpoints.

Additionally, the Schengen Zone allows free movement between member countries, but cruise lines must ensure compliance with the strictest rules along the itinerary.

Caribbean and Latin America

The Caribbean is a major cruise destination, and most islands have fully reopened without vaccine requirements. However, a few exceptions remain:

• Jamaica: No vaccine mandate, but unvaccinated travelers may need to test before entering certain resorts.
• Costa Rica: No restrictions, but proof of health insurance covering Covid-19 is required.
• Panama: No vaccine requirement, but unvaccinated passengers may need to quarantine if they test positive.

Asia and Oceania

Asia has been slower to reopen, and some countries still have strict rules:

• Japan: No vaccine mandate for entry, but unvaccinated travelers may face additional health screenings.
• Australia: No restrictions, but some states (e.g., Queensland) may require testing during outbreaks.
• New Zealand: No vaccine requirement, but unvaccinated guests may be restricted from certain excursions.

Key takeaway: Always research the entry requirements of every country on your itinerary, not just the cruise line’s policy.

How to Verify and Prepare for Your Cruise Vaccine Requirements

With so many variables, it’s essential to do your homework before booking or boarding your cruise. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Step 1: Check the Cruise Line’s Official Website

Always start with the cruise line’s official health and safety page. Policies change frequently, so rely on current information—not outdated blog posts or third-party summaries. Look for:

• “Health & Safety” or “Covid-19 Guidelines” section.
• Specific requirements for your itinerary and departure port.
• Deadlines for submitting test results or documentation.

Step 2: Review Your Itinerary and Ports of Call

Use government travel advisory websites to check entry rules for each destination:

• U.S. Department of State: travel.state.gov
• UK Foreign Travel Advice: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
• Canada Travel: travel.gc.ca
• EU Reopen: reopen.europa.eu

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Prepare the following documents in advance:

• Proof of vaccination (if applicable and required by ports).
• Negative test results (PCR or antigen).
• Travel insurance details.
• Passport and visa (if needed).
• Completed health questionnaires (usually online).

Step 4: Communicate with the Cruise Line

If you have questions or special circumstances (e.g., medical exemption, unvaccinated children), contact the cruise line’s customer service or medical department. Some lines offer waivers or alternative protocols for medically exempt guests.

Step 5: Stay Flexible

Rules can change with little notice. Sign up for email alerts from the cruise line and check your itinerary 72 hours before departure. Have a backup plan in case of last-minute changes.

Data Table: Cruise Line Vaccine and Testing Requirements (2024)

Cruise Line	Mandatory Vaccine?	Testing for Unvaccinated	Notes
Carnival Cruise Line	No (most sailings)	Pre-cruise test required	Restrictions may apply in certain ports
Royal Caribbean	No	PCR test within 72 hours	International itineraries may require vaccine
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	Health questionnaire + possible test	Subject to port regulations
Princess Cruises	No (domestic)	Testing for unvaccinated	Vaccine may be needed for international ports
MSC Cruises	No	Test or recovery proof for EU ports	EU Digital Certificate no longer required
Disney Cruise Line	No	Health screening + possible test	Policy subject to change
Celebrity Cruises	No	PCR test within 72 hours	Applies to all sailings
Cunard Line	Yes (long-haul voyages)	Not applicable	Vaccine required for transatlantic crossings

Conclusion: Navigating the New Normal of Cruise Travel

As of 2024, the majority of cruise lines no longer require Covid-19 vaccination for most sailings, reflecting a broader shift toward personal responsibility and flexible health protocols. However, the absence of a universal policy means travelers must do their due diligence. Your vaccination status can still affect your pre-cruise testing obligations, on-board experience, and access to ports and excursions.

The key to a smooth cruise vacation is proactive planning. Check the latest policies from your cruise line, research entry requirements for every destination, and prepare all necessary documentation well in advance. Consider travel insurance with pandemic coverage, and stay informed as rules evolve.

Ultimately, the cruise industry is adapting to a post-pandemic world—one where safety, flexibility, and guest choice are paramount. Whether you’re vaccinated or not, there’s never been a better time to set sail. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the open sea, stunning destinations, and unforgettable experiences that only a cruise can offer—safely and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines still requiring COVID vaccines in 2024?

As of 2024, most major cruise lines have dropped mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements, but policies vary by company and itinerary. Always check your cruise line’s official guidelines before booking.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go on a cruise this year?

Most cruise lines no longer require proof of vaccination, but some may recommend it for high-risk passengers or specific destinations. Unvaccinated travelers might face additional testing protocols.

Which cruise lines still require the COVID vaccine in 2024?

A few smaller luxury or expedition lines may still enforce vaccination rules, especially on international sailings. Examples include certain sailings with Viking or Ponant—verify directly with the cruise line.

Are unvaccinated passengers allowed on cruises now?

Yes, unvaccinated travelers can board most cruise ships, but they may need to present negative pre-departure COVID-19 test results. Some destinations or excursions might have extra restrictions.

Do cruise lines still require COVID vaccines for Alaska or European cruises?

Vaccine mandates for Alaska and Europe sailings have largely been lifted, but entry rules for foreign ports can change. Monitor both cruise line policies and destination country health requirements.

Can I cruise without a COVID vaccine if I have medical exemptions?

Many cruise lines accept medical exemptions but require documentation and pre-approval. Unvaccinated guests, including those with exemptions, might need to follow stricter testing rules.