Are There Any Cruise Lines That Do Not Require Vaccines for Travelers

Yes, some cruise lines do not require vaccines for travelers, offering more flexibility for those seeking relaxed health protocols—especially on shorter or domestic voyages. Lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian now allow unvaccinated guests on select sailings, though testing or documentation may still apply depending on the itinerary and local regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Some cruise lines allow unvaccinated travelers but require pre-trip testing.
• Check destinations as ports may enforce stricter vaccine rules than the cruise line.
• Medical exemptions are accepted by major lines with proper documentation.
• Smaller luxury lines often have more flexible health policies than big brands.
• Rules change often—verify requirements within 30 days of departure.
• Unvaccinated guests may face onboard restrictions like mask mandates or limited access.

Are There Any Cruise Lines That Do Not Require Vaccines for Travelers

The world of cruising has undergone a dramatic transformation since the onset of the global pandemic. For years, cruise lines implemented strict health and safety protocols, with mandatory vaccinations being a cornerstone of their strategy to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew. However, as the world adapts to a new normal, many cruise lines have begun to relax these requirements, sparking a renewed interest among travelers who may have previously avoided cruising due to vaccine mandates. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, a hesitant traveler, or someone with personal, medical, or philosophical reasons for not getting vaccinated, the question remains: Are there any cruise lines that do not require vaccines for travelers?

The answer is nuanced and depends on several factors, including the cruise line, itinerary, departure port, and destination regulations. While some cruise lines have dropped vaccine requirements entirely, others still enforce them for specific regions or sailings. This blog post dives deep into the current landscape of cruise vaccination policies, explores which lines offer more flexibility, and provides practical guidance for travelers seeking vaccine-free cruising options. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, a transatlantic journey, or a river cruise through Europe, understanding these policies is essential to making informed decisions and enjoying a stress-free vacation.

Understanding the Shift in Cruise Line Vaccination Policies

The cruise industry’s approach to vaccination has evolved rapidly in response to public health trends, government regulations, and passenger demand. In 2021 and 2022, nearly all major cruise lines enforced strict vaccine mandates, often requiring full vaccination and even booster shots. However, as global health agencies downgraded the pandemic status and travel restrictions eased, many cruise lines began to reevaluate their policies. This shift reflects both a desire to attract a broader customer base and a recognition that the risk profile of cruise travel has changed.

The Timeline of Policy Changes

The timeline of vaccination policy changes varies by company, but a general pattern has emerged:

• 2021–2022: Nearly all major cruise lines required full vaccination for all passengers aged 12 and older, with some extending mandates to children as young as 5. Testing and health declarations were also mandatory.

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• Late 2022–Early 2023: Several lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, began to lift vaccine requirements for select itineraries, especially those departing from U.S. ports.
• Mid-2023: Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line followed suit, removing vaccine mandates for most sailings.
• 2024: As of early 2024, the majority of mainstream cruise lines no longer require vaccinations for most voyages, though exceptions remain for certain regions and high-risk demographics.

These changes were driven not only by declining case numbers but also by feedback from passengers. A 2023 survey by Cruise Critic found that 68% of respondents were more likely to book a cruise if vaccine requirements were optional. This data prompted cruise lines to adopt more flexible policies to remain competitive.

Why Policies Vary by Itinerary and Region

Even when a cruise line announces a general relaxation of vaccine rules, the policy may not apply uniformly across all sailings. Key factors influencing this variation include:

• Port of Departure: Cruises leaving from the U.S. are more likely to have relaxed rules due to federal and state-level guidance. In contrast, cruises departing from countries with stricter health regulations (e.g., Australia, Canada, or certain EU nations) may still require vaccinations.
• Destination Requirements: Some countries, such as Canada, Japan, and New Zealand, still require proof of vaccination for entry. Cruise lines must comply with these regulations, meaning passengers on itineraries visiting these destinations may be required to be vaccinated, regardless of the cruise line’s general policy.
• Length of Cruise: Longer voyages (e.g., transatlantic or world cruises) often involve multiple countries with varying entry rules, increasing the likelihood of vaccine requirements.
• Ship Capacity and Demographics: Some lines may still require vaccinations for sailings with higher proportions of elderly or medically vulnerable passengers.

For example, a Royal Caribbean cruise from Miami to the Caribbean in 2024 may not require vaccinations, but the same ship sailing from Vancouver to Alaska might, due to Canadian border rules.

Major Cruise Lines That Do Not Require Vaccines (as of 2024)

As of 2024, several major cruise lines have officially dropped vaccine mandates for most of their sailings. Below is a breakdown of the current policies for the largest cruise operators, with a focus on flexibility for unvaccinated travelers.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line was one of the first to relax its vaccine policy. As of January 2023, NCL no longer requires vaccinations for any sailings departing from U.S. ports. This includes popular itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda. However, for sailings that visit countries with entry restrictions (e.g., Canada, the UK, or certain European nations), unvaccinated passengers may be denied boarding or required to undergo additional testing and quarantine.

Key Tip: Always check the specific itinerary on NCL’s website. The company provides a “Travel Requirements” tool that outlines health protocols for each sailing. Unvaccinated travelers are encouraged to book through a travel agent who can help navigate regional rules.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean removed its vaccine mandate for most U.S.-based cruises in March 2023. This applies to sailings from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, and other major U.S. ports. However, unvaccinated passengers must still:

• Provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding (or an antigen test within 24 hours).
• Sign a health declaration form.
• Be aware that some ports of call (e.g., Canada, the UK, or Japan) may require vaccination for disembarkation.

For sailings to Europe, Royal Caribbean recommends but does not require vaccination. Unvaccinated passengers may face restrictions in certain ports, such as limited shore excursions or mandatory testing upon reboarding.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival dropped its vaccine requirement for all U.S. sailings in April 2023. Unvaccinated guests must:

• Submit a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of embarkation.
• Complete a pre-cruise health questionnaire.
• Understand that some destinations (e.g., Bermuda, Canada, or the UK) may have their own entry rules.

Carnival’s policy is one of the most passenger-friendly, with no additional fees or restrictions for unvaccinated travelers—except where mandated by local authorities.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises has maintained a more cautious approach but has relaxed its policies significantly. As of 2024, MSC no longer requires vaccinations for sailings in the Caribbean and U.S. East Coast. However, for European itineraries (e.g., Mediterranean or Northern Europe), vaccination is still recommended, and unvaccinated passengers may be subject to testing and quarantine in certain ports.

Note: MSC’s policy is subject to change based on local regulations. For example, a cruise visiting Italy and France may have different rules than one sailing only in Greece and Spain.

Smaller and Niche Cruise Lines

Several smaller or specialty cruise lines also do not require vaccinations, often due to their focus on domestic or regional itineraries:

• American Queen Voyages: No vaccine mandate for U.S. river cruises and coastal voyages. Testing may be required.
• Lindblad Expeditions: Vaccination is not required for most expeditions, but unvaccinated travelers must provide a negative test and follow enhanced hygiene protocols.
• UnCruise Adventures: Small-ship operator with no vaccine requirements for Alaska, Hawaii, and Pacific Northwest sailings. Testing and health screenings are mandatory.

Cruise Lines That Still Require Vaccines (With Exceptions)

While many cruise lines have relaxed their policies, a few still require vaccinations for certain sailings. These requirements are typically tied to destination-specific regulations or the cruise line’s own risk assessment.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises removed its vaccine mandate for U.S. sailings in May 2023, but it still enforces vaccination requirements for:

• Cruises to Canada, Alaska (when departing from Vancouver), and certain European countries.
• World cruises and long-duration voyages (over 15 nights), where the risk of exposure is higher.

Unvaccinated passengers on these itineraries may be denied boarding unless they obtain a medical exemption (which is rarely granted).

Holland America Line

Similar to Princess, Holland America no longer requires vaccines for most U.S. sailings but maintains mandates for:

• Itineraries visiting Canada, the UK, or Japan.
• Cruises with high proportions of elderly passengers (e.g., senior-focused voyages).

Holland America also requires unvaccinated passengers to sign a waiver acknowledging the risks of travel.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has been slower to relax its policies. As of 2024, Disney still recommends vaccination for all passengers aged 5 and older. While not strictly mandatory, unvaccinated guests are:

• Required to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding.
• Subject to additional health screenings.
• Discouraged from booking sailings to destinations with strict entry rules.

Disney’s cautious approach is likely due to its family-oriented clientele and the desire to minimize disruptions for children and elderly passengers.

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises

These luxury lines have maintained stricter policies. As of 2024, both require vaccination for all passengers aged 12 and older on all sailings. Unvaccinated travelers are not permitted to board, even if the destination does not require it. This policy is justified as a way to protect the health of older, high-net-worth passengers who are more vulnerable to severe illness.

How to Navigate Vaccine Policies as an Unvaccinated Traveler

For unvaccinated travelers, cruising is more accessible than it has been in years, but careful planning is essential to avoid surprises at the gangway. Below are practical tips to help you book a cruise that aligns with your needs.

1. Research the Itinerary Thoroughly

Always check the specific sailing you’re interested in, not just the cruise line’s general policy. A cruise from Miami to the Bahamas may not require vaccines, but the same line’s sailing from Miami to Canada might. Use tools like:

• The cruise line’s “Travel Requirements” page (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Health & Safety Hub).
• Third-party resources like Cruise Critic or CruiseLine.com, which track policy changes.
• Government travel advisories for each destination (e.g., U.S. State Department, CDC, or local health ministries).

2. Work with a Knowledgeable Travel Agent

A travel agent who specializes in cruising can help you navigate the complex web of rules. They can:

• Identify sailings with the most flexible policies.
• Alert you to destination-specific requirements.
• Assist with documentation (e.g., test results, health forms).
• Advocate for you if policy changes occur after booking.

Many agents offer free consultations and can save you time and stress.

3. Prepare for Testing and Health Screenings

Even if vaccines are not required, most cruise lines still require pre-cruise testing for unvaccinated passengers. Be prepared to:

• Schedule a PCR or antigen test within the required timeframe (usually 24–72 hours before boarding).
• Pay for testing out of pocket (costs range from $50–$150).
• Complete health questionnaires and temperature checks at embarkation.

Pro Tip: Book refundable tests in case your cruise is canceled or rescheduled.

4. Understand the Risks of Port Restrictions

Unvaccinated passengers may face limitations in certain ports. For example:

• You may not be allowed to disembark in Canada, Japan, or the UK.
• Shore excursions may require additional testing or quarantine.
• You may need to stay on the ship during port calls (which can be frustrating but is sometimes the only option).

Always research the entry rules for each destination before booking. Websites like IATA Travel Centre provide up-to-date country-specific requirements.

5. Consider Travel Insurance

Given the potential for last-minute policy changes or denied boarding, travel insurance is highly recommended. Look for policies that cover:

• Trip cancellation due to health-related reasons.
• Denied boarding at the port.
• Medical expenses and quarantine costs.

Some insurers, like Allianz and Travel Guard, offer “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage, which provides maximum flexibility.

Data Table: Cruise Line Vaccination Policies (2024)

Cruise Line	Vaccine Required?	Testing Required for Unvaccinated?	Notes
Norwegian Cruise Line	No (U.S. sailings)	Yes (PCR or antigen)	Mandatory for Canada/UK sailings
Royal Caribbean	No (U.S. sailings)	Yes (PCR within 72h or antigen within 24h)	Port restrictions in Canada/Europe
Carnival	No (U.S. sailings)	Yes (antigen within 24h)	No restrictions except destination rules
MSC Cruises	No (Caribbean/U.S. East Coast)	Yes (varies by itinerary)	Still required for some European ports
Princess Cruises	Yes (Canada, Europe, world cruises)	Yes (for all unvaccinated passengers)	No vaccine mandate for U.S. sailings
Disney Cruise Line	Recommended (not required)	Yes (PCR within 72h)	Strict health screenings
Oceania/Regent Seven Seas	Yes (all sailings)	No (vaccination mandatory)	No exceptions for unvaccinated

The Future of Cruise Vaccination Policies

The cruise industry’s vaccination policies are likely to remain fluid in the coming years. As global health conditions evolve, cruise lines will continue to adapt their protocols to balance safety, compliance, and customer demand. Several trends are emerging:

• Regional Flexibility: Cruise lines may adopt a “tiered” approach, with stricter rules for high-risk destinations and relaxed policies for low-risk regions.
• Enhanced Testing Protocols: Testing may become the primary screening tool, replacing vaccination mandates in many cases.
• Personalized Risk Assessment: Some lines may offer “risk-based” booking options, where passengers can choose their level of protection (e.g., vaccinated-only zones, enhanced cleaning, or private excursions).
• Regulatory Pressure: Governments and port authorities will continue to influence cruise policies, especially for international itineraries.

For unvaccinated travelers, the outlook is cautiously optimistic. As more countries drop entry restrictions and the cruise industry embraces flexibility, the options for vaccine-free cruising will likely expand. However, vigilance is key—policies can change with little notice, and destination rules remain a critical factor.

In conclusion, the answer to “Are there any cruise lines that do not require vaccines for travelers?” is a resounding yes—but with important caveats. While most major cruise lines now allow unvaccinated passengers on U.S.-based sailings, the rules vary significantly by itinerary, destination, and cruise line. By doing thorough research, working with a knowledgeable agent, and preparing for testing and port restrictions, unvaccinated travelers can enjoy the freedom and adventure of cruising without compromising their personal choices. The sea is calling—and for many, it’s more accessible than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any cruise lines that do not require vaccines for travelers?

Yes, some cruise lines have relaxed or removed vaccine mandates post-pandemic. Examples include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line, though policies may vary by itinerary and departure port.

Do any major cruise lines allow unvaccinated passengers?

As of recent updates, major cruise lines like MSC Cruises and Princess Cruises allow unvaccinated travelers on select sailings, but testing requirements may apply. Always check the cruise line’s latest health protocols before booking.

Which cruise lines don’t require vaccines or testing?

Most cruise lines still require either vaccination or pre-travel testing, but a few, like Disney Cruise Line on certain routes, may waive both depending on local regulations. Policies change frequently, so verify directly with the cruise line.

Are there cruise lines that don’t require vaccines for kids?

Many cruise lines that no longer require adult vaccinations extend the same policy to children. For example, Costa Cruises and Holland America Line often allow unvaccinated kids if the destination doesn’t mandate it.

Can I cruise without a vaccine if I have a medical exemption?

Some cruise lines, like Celebrity Cruises, accept medical exemptions but may require additional documentation and pre-approval. Unvaccinated travelers might face testing or itinerary restrictions.

Do small or luxury cruise lines have different vaccine rules?

Luxury lines like Viking Ocean Cruises or small-ship operators (e.g., Lindblad Expeditions) often follow stricter policies, but exceptions exist. Smaller lines may adjust rules faster based on local health guidelines, so ask directly.