Do Any Cruise Lines Allow Unvaccinated Guests in 2024

Most major cruise lines now require vaccinations for all eligible guests in 2024, but a few smaller or luxury lines—such as Virgin Voyages and certain river cruises—still allow unvaccinated travelers with testing protocols. Policies vary widely, so checking specific cruise line rules before booking is essential. Unvaccinated guests may face extra requirements like pre-trip testing, onboard restrictions, or travel insurance mandates.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines require vaccination for all eligible guests in 2024.
• Some lines allow unvaccinated guests with negative test results and added protocols.
• Check each line’s policy as rules vary by itinerary and departure port.
• Unvaccinated travelers may face restrictions like mask mandates or limited access to venues.
• Book with flexible policies in case rules change before your sailing date.
• Children under vaccine eligibility are often exempt but require testing.

Understanding the Cruise Industry’s Vaccination Policies in 2024

The cruise industry has undergone a dramatic transformation since the global pandemic disrupted travel in 2020. As the world adapts to new norms, one of the most debated topics among travelers is whether cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests in 2024. For many, cruising represents the ultimate vacation—luxurious ships, exotic destinations, and onboard entertainment. But for those who remain unvaccinated due to medical, personal, or religious reasons, the path to boarding a cruise has become increasingly complex. In 2024, the landscape is still evolving, with policies varying significantly across cruise lines, regions, and even individual sailings.

While some cruise lines have fully reopened their doors to all passengers regardless of vaccination status, others maintain strict requirements, particularly on international or high-risk itineraries. The decision to allow unvaccinated guests is influenced by a mix of factors: local health regulations, port entry rules, insurance policies, and corporate risk management. This article explores the current state of vaccination policies across major cruise lines, offering travelers—especially those who are unvaccinated—a clear, up-to-date guide to navigating the waters of 2024 cruising. Whether you’re planning a Caribbean getaway or a transatlantic journey, understanding these policies is essential to ensuring a smooth and stress-free vacation.

Current Landscape: Do Any Cruise Lines Allow Unvaccinated Guests in 2024?

Yes, several major cruise lines now allow unvaccinated guests to sail in 2024, but with important caveats. The shift toward more inclusive policies began in late 2022 and accelerated throughout 2023, as public health agencies downgraded the emergency status of the pandemic and many countries relaxed entry requirements. However, the term “allow” doesn’t mean “without restrictions.” Unvaccinated travelers often face additional requirements such as pre-travel testing, enhanced health screenings, and in some cases, restricted access to certain areas of the ship or ports.

Major Cruise Lines with Open Policies for Unvaccinated Travelers

As of early 2024, the following cruise lines have confirmed they accept unvaccinated guests on most sailings:

• Royal Caribbean International: No longer requires proof of vaccination for most itineraries. However, unvaccinated guests must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48–72 hours before boarding. Some international ports (e.g., Italy, Greece) may still require vaccination for entry, so travelers must check destination-specific rules.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Vaccination is no longer mandatory. Unvaccinated passengers must complete a health questionnaire and provide a negative test result (PCR or antigen) within 72 hours of embarkation. Testing is required for all guests over the age of 2.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Fully open to unvaccinated travelers. A negative antigen test within 24 hours of boarding is mandatory. Guests may also be subject to random testing during the cruise.
• MSC Cruises: No vaccination requirement for most sailings. Unvaccinated guests must take a rapid antigen test at the terminal before boarding. Some Mediterranean and Caribbean ports may impose their own rules, which are communicated via email prior to departure.
• Holland America Line: Allows unvaccinated guests but requires a negative PCR test within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test within 24 hours. Testing is free at the terminal but must be scheduled in advance.

Exceptions and Regional Variations

While these lines have relaxed their policies, exceptions still apply. For example:

• Transatlantic and Repositioning Cruises: These long-haul voyages often involve multiple countries, some of which may still require vaccination for entry. In such cases, cruise lines may mandate vaccination for all passengers, regardless of individual preference.
• Alaska and Canada Itineraries: As of 2024, Canada no longer requires vaccination for entry, but some Alaskan ports may have local regulations. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America may require vaccination for certain sailings that dock in remote or rural areas with limited medical facilities.
• European River Cruises: Companies like Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways have removed vaccination mandates but still require pre-travel testing. Some countries (e.g., Austria, Germany) may enforce stricter rules during seasonal outbreaks.

Pro Tip: Always verify the policy for your specific sailing date and route. Cruise lines update policies frequently, and a rule that applied to a March cruise may not be valid in July.

What Unvaccinated Guests Must Know: Testing, Documentation, and Costs

Even when cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests, the experience often comes with extra steps and expenses. Unlike vaccinated travelers who may board with minimal hassle, unvaccinated passengers typically face a multi-step process designed to minimize risk to the onboard community. Understanding these requirements is crucial to avoiding delays or denied boarding.

Mandatory Pre-Travel Testing Requirements

Most cruise lines that accept unvaccinated guests require one or more of the following tests:

• Rapid Antigen Test: Must be taken within 24–72 hours of embarkation. Results are often accepted via photo or digital certificate. Some lines (e.g., Norwegian, Carnival) offer on-site testing at the terminal for a fee (typically $30–$50).
• PCR Test: Required by lines like Royal Caribbean and Holland America. Must be taken within 72 hours of boarding. PCR tests are more accurate but take longer to process and are more expensive (usually $100–$150).
• Onboard Testing: Some cruise lines conduct random antigen tests during the voyage. If you test positive, you may be quarantined in your stateroom or disembarked at the next port at your own expense.

Example: On a 7-night Carnival cruise from Miami to the Bahamas, an unvaccinated guest must take a rapid antigen test at home within 72 hours of departure. If the test is positive, they cannot board. If negative, they must show the result at check-in. During the cruise, they may be selected for a random test. If they test positive, they are isolated and must arrange their own transportation home.

Documentation and Verification Process

Unvaccinated travelers must provide:

• A negative test result (digital or printed)
• A completed health declaration form (usually online)
• Proof of travel insurance (some lines require coverage for COVID-related medical care and quarantine)
• For international sailings: A visa or entry permit (if applicable)

Many cruise lines use digital platforms like the Royal Caribbean app or Carnival Hub to upload documents. Failing to upload on time can delay boarding. Tip: Submit all documents at least 72 hours before departure to avoid last-minute issues.

Cost Implications for Unvaccinated Travelers

While vaccination is free in most countries, testing adds significant costs:

• Home antigen test: $10–$20 (but not always accepted)
• Pharmacy or clinic PCR: $100–$150
• On-site terminal testing: $30–$50
• Insurance: $50–$150 per person (recommended for unvaccinated guests)

For a family of four, these expenses can add $300–$600 to the trip cost. Some cruise lines offer bundled testing packages (e.g., Carnival’s “Test to Sail” for $100 per person), which include both pre-travel and onboard testing.

Cruise Lines That Still Require Vaccination in 2024

Despite the trend toward inclusivity, a few major cruise lines still require all guests to be fully vaccinated. These policies are often driven by operational risk, port regulations, or corporate health mandates. For unvaccinated travelers, these lines remain off-limits—unless they obtain a medical exemption.

Lines with Full Vaccination Mandates

• Disney Cruise Line: As of 2024, all guests aged 5 and older must be fully vaccinated. No exceptions are made for religious or personal beliefs. Medical exemptions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and require extensive documentation (e.g., doctor’s note, medical history).
• Princess Cruises: Requires vaccination for all guests on most itineraries, especially those involving multiple countries. Unvaccinated guests may only sail if they have a CDC-approved medical exemption and pass a pre-screening interview.
• Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Both brands, part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, maintain a strict vaccination policy. Unvaccinated guests are not permitted, even with testing. This is due to the premium nature of the voyages and the higher average age of passengers (60+), who are more vulnerable to severe illness.

Medical and Religious Exemptions: How to Apply

For travelers who cannot get vaccinated due to medical conditions (e.g., severe allergies, immunosuppression) or sincerely held religious beliefs, some lines offer exemption processes:

• Medical Exemptions: Require a letter from a licensed physician detailing the contraindication. The letter must be submitted at least 30 days before departure. Approval is not guaranteed and may require additional documentation (e.g., lab results, specialist evaluation).
• Religious Exemptions: Must include a notarized statement explaining the belief and its connection to vaccination. Cruise lines like Princess and Holland America have denied exemptions for vague or non-specific claims.

Important: Even if granted an exemption, unvaccinated guests may still be required to:

• Take multiple tests (before, during, and after the cruise)
• Wear masks in public areas
• Limit participation in group activities
• Sign a liability waiver

Real-World Example: A family of four with a child who has a documented anaphylactic reaction to vaccine components applied for a medical exemption with Princess Cruises. After submitting pediatrician records and allergist reports, they were approved—but required to take three PCR tests, wear N95 masks indoors, and avoid the buffet and theater.

Navigating Port Entry Rules: The Hidden Challenge for Unvaccinated Cruisers

Even if a cruise line allows unvaccinated guests, the real challenge often lies in port entry requirements. Countries and territories have their own health regulations, which can override cruise line policies. This creates a complex patchwork of rules that travelers must navigate carefully.

Port-by-Port Vaccination Requirements in 2024

Here are key destinations and their current entry rules for unvaccinated travelers:

• Caribbean Islands:
  • Jamaica: No vaccination requirement. Negative antigen test within 72 hours accepted.
  • Barbados: Requires either vaccination or a negative PCR test within 72 hours.
  • St. Maarten: Open to unvaccinated travelers with a negative antigen test.
• Europe:
  • Greece: No restrictions as of 2024. Unvaccinated guests can disembark freely.
  • Italy: Still requires proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test for cruise passengers. Cruise lines often arrange group testing onshore.
  • France: No vaccination mandate, but random checks may occur.
• Canada and Alaska:
  • Vancouver: No vaccination requirement, but cruise lines may impose their own rules for Alaska-bound ships.
  • Skagway, Alaska: No local restrictions, but some excursions (e.g., White Pass Railway) require vaccination.
• Asia:
  • Japan: Open to unvaccinated tourists with a negative test, but cruise lines may restrict disembarkation.
  • Singapore: No vaccination requirement, but pre-arrival health declaration mandatory.

What Happens If a Port Requires Vaccination?

If a destination mandates vaccination and a guest is unvaccinated:

• They may be restricted to the ship during that port stop.
• They might be required to take an onshore test to prove negative status (at their own cost).
• In rare cases, the cruise line may skip the port entirely to avoid logistical issues—though this is uncommon and usually communicated in advance.

Tip: Use the cruise line’s “Destination Requirements” page (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Destination Requirements) to check rules for each port. These pages are updated weekly.

Tips for Unvaccinated Travelers: How to Cruise Safely and Smoothly

Cruising as an unvaccinated guest in 2024 is possible—but it requires extra planning, flexibility, and preparation. Here are expert tips to help you navigate the process and enjoy your vacation without unnecessary stress.

Choose the Right Cruise Line and Itinerary

• Stick to lines with open policies (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC) for hassle-free boarding.
• Avoid transoceanic or multi-country cruises if you’re unvaccinated, as these are more likely to have strict rules.
• Opt for domestic or regional itineraries (e.g., Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska) where port rules are more consistent.

Plan Testing in Advance

• Book PCR tests at a certified lab (e.g., Quest, Labcorp) 4–5 days before departure to ensure timely results.
• Purchase FDA-approved at-home antigen tests (e.g., BinaxNOW, iHealth) as backup.
• Check if your cruise line offers on-site testing—this can be convenient but more expensive.

Prepare Documentation Digitally

• Upload test results, health forms, and insurance to the cruise line’s app or website at least 72 hours before departure.
• Carry printed copies as a backup.
• Save a digital copy of your passport, visa (if needed), and travel insurance policy.

Pack Smart for Health and Comfort

• Bring N95 or KN95 masks (required on some ships and in ports).
• Pack a thermometer and basic medications (fever reducers, cough syrup).
• Include hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) and disinfecting wipes.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

• Understand the cruise line’s cancellation policy. Most lines allow refunds if you test positive before departure.
• Ensure your travel insurance covers COVID-related medical care, quarantine, and trip interruption.
• Be respectful of onboard health protocols—even if unvaccinated, you share responsibility for community safety.

Data Table: 2024 Cruise Line Vaccination and Testing Requirements

Cruise Line	Vaccination Required?	Pre-Travel Test Required?	Test Type & Timing	Onboard Testing?	Medical Exemptions?
Royal Caribbean	No	Yes	PCR within 72h or antigen within 48h	Random	Yes (case-by-case)
Carnival	No	Yes	Antigen within 72h	Random	Yes
Norwegian	No	Yes	Antigen within 24h	Yes (random)	Yes
MSC	No	Yes	Antigen at terminal	No	Yes
Holland America	No	Yes	PCR within 72h or antigen within 24h	Random	Yes
Disney	Yes	No	N/A	N/A	Limited (medical only)
Princess	Yes (most sailings)	Yes (if exempt)	PCR within 72h	Yes	Yes (strict)
Oceania/Regent	Yes	No	N/A	N/A	No

Conclusion: The Future of Unvaccinated Cruising in 2024 and Beyond

The question “Do any cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests in 2024?” has a resounding yes—but with important nuances. The majority of mainstream cruise lines now welcome unvaccinated travelers, provided they meet testing and documentation requirements. This shift reflects a broader normalization of travel in a post-pandemic world, where health protocols are becoming more flexible and risk-based rather than blanket mandates.

For unvaccinated cruisers, the key to a successful trip lies in preparation. By choosing the right cruise line, planning for testing, understanding port rules, and packing appropriately, you can enjoy the magic of the sea without compromising your health or values. However, the landscape remains fluid. Policies can change with little notice based on global health trends, new variants, or geopolitical events. Staying informed through official cruise line communications, government travel advisories, and trusted travel agents is essential.

Looking ahead, the trend is likely to continue toward greater inclusivity. As public health agencies emphasize personal responsibility over mandates, cruise lines will balance safety with accessibility. For now, unvaccinated travelers have more options than ever—but they must be proactive, informed, and flexible. The open sea is calling, and with the right preparation, everyone can answer it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests in 2024?

Yes, some cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line now permit unvaccinated guests, though testing requirements may apply. Policies vary by destination and departure port, so always check the latest guidelines before booking.

What cruise lines allow unvaccinated travelers with no restrictions?

Most major cruise lines no longer require vaccinations but may ask unvaccinated guests to take a pre-travel COVID-19 test. For example, MSC Cruises and Princess Cruises fall into this category, but rules can change based on local regulations.

Can unvaccinated children cruise with vaccinated parents?

Yes, many cruise lines allow unvaccinated children to sail with vaccinated adults, often requiring negative test results instead of vaccines. Disney Cruise Line and Holland America follow this approach for families with mixed vaccination statuses.

Do any cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests without pre-travel testing?

As of 2024, most cruise lines still require either vaccination or a negative test for unvaccinated passengers. A few, like Costa Cruises, may waive testing for short domestic sailings, but this is rare and destination-dependent.

Are there cruise lines that accept unvaccinated passengers on international voyages?

Yes, but requirements vary. For instance, Cunard and Celebrity Cruises allow unvaccinated guests on international cruises if they provide a negative PCR test within 72 hours of boarding, along with other health protocols.

What documents do unvaccinated guests need to cruise in 2024?

Unvaccinated guests typically need a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken 1-3 days before departure, depending on the cruise line. Some lines may also require travel insurance or health questionnaires for unvaccinated passengers.