Do Any Cruise Lines Not Require Covid Vaccination Find Out Here

Yes, several cruise lines do not require COVID-19 vaccination, including Royal Caribbean (on select sailings), Carnival Cruise Line (for unvaccinated guests on short voyages), and Norwegian Cruise Line (with testing instead of proof of vaccination). Rules vary by itinerary, departure port, and local regulations, so checking the latest policy before booking is essential—even unvaccinated travelers may need pre-trip testing or face specific onboard restrictions.

Key Takeaways

• Some cruise lines still allow unvaccinated travelers—check specific policies.
• Always verify rules directly with the cruise line before booking.
• Testing may replace vaccination on select sailings—review requirements carefully.
• Children under 5 often exempt from vaccine mandates on most ships.
• Exemptions are rare but possible for medical or religious reasons.
• Smaller or private cruise lines may have more flexible health rules.

Understanding the Changing Landscape of Cruise Line Vaccination Policies

As global travel continues to rebound in the post-pandemic era, cruise lines are adapting their health and safety protocols to meet evolving public health guidelines and traveler expectations. One of the most frequently asked questions among prospective cruisers is: Do any cruise lines not require Covid vaccination? For travelers who are unvaccinated due to medical, religious, or personal reasons, this question is more than just logistical—it’s about access to a dream vacation. The answer is not straightforward, as policies vary widely between cruise operators, itineraries, and even individual ports of call.

Over the past few years, the cruise industry implemented strict vaccination mandates as a key defense against the spread of Covid-19 onboard. However, with the decline in severe cases, improved treatments, and shifting public sentiment, many cruise lines have relaxed or eliminated their vaccine requirements. This shift has opened the door for unvaccinated travelers—but with important caveats. Some lines maintain strict rules, while others offer exemptions under specific conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines currently do not require Covid vaccination, what alternatives exist for unvaccinated guests, and how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of cruise health policies. Whether you’re planning a tropical escape to the Caribbean or a transatlantic voyage, understanding these nuances can make all the difference in your travel experience.

Which Major Cruise Lines Have Removed Vaccine Mandates?

The tide has turned significantly since 2021 and 2022, when most major cruise lines enforced mandatory vaccination for all adult passengers. As of 2023 and into 2024, the majority of large cruise companies have dropped blanket vaccine requirements, allowing unvaccinated travelers to sail—albeit with additional conditions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the current policies among the most popular cruise brands.

Royal Caribbean International: Vaccination Optional, But Testing Required

Royal Caribbean, one of the world’s largest cruise operators, officially removed its mandatory vaccination policy in early 2023 for most sailings. Unvaccinated guests are welcome, but they must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to boarding. This rule applies to all guests aged 5 and older. The cruise line emphasizes that testing is a non-negotiable substitute for vaccination, and failure to provide valid test results may result in denied boarding.

Practical Tip: If you’re unvaccinated and planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, book your test early. Many ports offer on-site testing at the terminal, but lines can be long, and delays may jeopardize your embarkation.

Carnival Cruise Line: No Vaccine, But Test and Documentation Required

Carnival Cruise Line followed suit in mid-2023 by lifting its vaccine mandate. Unvaccinated passengers can now sail on most itineraries, including popular routes to the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Eastern Caribbean. However, they must submit a negative test result (PCR or antigen) no more than 72 hours before boarding. Additionally, unvaccinated guests may be required to complete a health questionnaire and sign a waiver acknowledging the risks of cruising without vaccination.

Example: On a 7-day Carnival Breeze cruise from Miami to Cozumel, an unvaccinated traveler must provide a negative test but is otherwise treated like any other guest once onboard. However, shore excursions in certain ports (like Canada or Bermuda) may still impose their own vaccine rules.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexible Policy with Regional Exceptions

NCL has adopted a flexible approach. As of 2024, vaccination is no longer required for most sailings departing from U.S. and European ports. Unvaccinated guests must provide a negative test result within 72 hours of embarkation. However, NCL maintains stricter rules for cruises visiting countries with active vaccine mandates. For instance, if your itinerary includes stops in Canada, you must be vaccinated—even if the cruise departs from the U.S.

Important Note: NCL’s policy is dynamic and may change based on destination regulations. Always check the “Health & Safety” section of your specific cruise itinerary on the NCL website.

MSC Cruises: Region-Specific Rules

MSC Cruises operates a global fleet, and its policies vary by region. In North America and the Caribbean, unvaccinated guests are permitted with a negative test. However, for Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises, MSC may still require vaccination for certain age groups or during peak seasons. For example, in 2023, MSC required all guests over 12 to be vaccinated for cruises departing from Italy, but this rule was lifted in 2024 for most summer sailings.

Tip: Use MSC’s online “Travel Requirements Tool” to input your cruise details and get a personalized list of health protocols, including testing and vaccine rules.

Disney Cruise Line: Still Enforcing Stricter Standards

Unlike its competitors, Disney Cruise Line continues to require all guests aged 5 and older to be fully vaccinated as of early 2024. Medical and religious exemptions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, but approval is rare. Unvaccinated travelers must undergo a rigorous application process, provide extensive documentation, and may still be denied boarding if the cruise visits a port with strict entry rules.

Why the difference? Disney markets heavily to families with young children, and the company has prioritized a cautious approach to protect immunocompromised guests and maintain a high standard of onboard safety.

Cruise Lines That Still Require Vaccination (With Limited Exceptions)

While many cruise lines have relaxed their rules, several still enforce mandatory vaccination, particularly for certain itineraries, age groups, or destinations. Understanding these exceptions is crucial for unvaccinated travelers who want to avoid last-minute surprises.

Holland America Line: Vaccination Required for Most Sailings

Holland America, part of the Carnival Corporation, maintains a vaccine requirement for all guests aged 5 and older on most voyages. This applies to cruises in Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe. However, the line does offer a medical exemption process. Unvaccinated guests must submit a formal request with supporting documents (e.g., a physician’s note explaining contraindications) at least 30 days before departure.

Example: An unvaccinated traveler with a documented allergy to mRNA vaccines can apply for an exemption. If approved, they must present a negative test result and may be subject to additional health screenings onboard.

Princess Cruises: Similar to Holland America

Princess Cruises follows nearly identical protocols to Holland America, including a mandatory vaccination policy for guests 5+. The exemption process is available but not guaranteed. Princess also requires unvaccinated exempt guests to take a pre-cruise test and may restrict access to certain onboard areas (e.g., crowded dining rooms or entertainment venues) during peak times.

Practical Tip: If you’re unvaccinated and set on a Princess cruise, contact their Guest Services at least 60 days in advance to begin the exemption process. Delays in documentation can result in denial of boarding.

Smaller Luxury and Expedition Lines with Stricter Rules

Several high-end and expedition-focused cruise lines continue to require vaccination due to the nature of their itineraries and onboard environments. These include:

• Silversea Cruises: Vaccination required for all guests aged 12+ on all sailings.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Mandatory vaccination for all adult passengers; children under 12 may be exempt with testing.
• Oceania Cruises: Vaccination required for all guests 5+ on most itineraries.
• Hurtigruten Expeditions: Requires vaccination for all guests on Arctic and Antarctic voyages due to remote medical facilities.

Why the difference? These lines often operate in remote regions with limited medical support, making vaccination a critical layer of protection for both passengers and crew.

Exceptions Based on Itinerary and Destination

Even on cruise lines that allow unvaccinated guests, your itinerary can change the rules. For example:

• A Carnival cruise from Miami to Nassau (Bahamas) may allow unvaccinated guests with a test.
• The same Carnival ship sailing from Seattle to Vancouver (Canada) will require vaccination due to Canadian border regulations.

Always verify the entry requirements of each port of call, as cruise lines are obligated to comply with local laws—even if their own policy is more lenient.

How to Navigate Testing and Documentation for Unvaccinated Travelers

For unvaccinated guests, the key to a smooth cruise experience lies in meticulous preparation. While vaccination is no longer a universal requirement, the burden of proof often shifts to testing, documentation, and communication. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game.

Pre-Cruise Testing: Types, Timing, and Where to Get It

Most cruise lines accept either PCR or antigen tests, but there are important distinctions:

• PCR Tests: More accurate but take 24–72 hours for results. Ideal if you’re testing at home or through a clinic.
• Antigen (Rapid) Tests: Results in 15–30 minutes. Must be supervised (e.g., at a pharmacy or clinic) to meet cruise requirements. At-home tests are usually not accepted unless administered by a telehealth provider.

Timing Tip: Schedule your test so the result is available at least 24 hours before boarding. For example, if your cruise departs at 4 PM on Saturday, take the test no earlier than 4 PM on Wednesday. This ensures the 72-hour window is met.

Where to Get a Compliant Test

Options include:

• Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid offer supervised rapid testing (~$50–$100).
• Travel Clinics: Specialized clinics like Passport Health or local urgent care centers provide PCR and antigen tests with documentation.
• On-Site Terminal Testing: Many ports (e.g., Port Canaveral, Miami) have testing facilities at the cruise terminal. However, these can be crowded and expensive (~$100–$150).

Pro Tip: Book your test online in advance to avoid long lines. Some cruise lines partner with testing providers (e.g., Royal Caribbean with eTrueNorth) for discounted rates.

Documentation: What You Need to Bring

Unvaccinated travelers must carry the following:

• A printed or digital copy of the negative test result (including name, date of birth, test type, and timestamp).
• A government-issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license).
• Any exemption approval letters (if applicable).
• Health declaration forms (usually completed online pre-cruise).

Important: Some cruise lines require the test result to be in English. If your test is in another language, bring a certified translation.

Onboard Protocols for Unvaccinated Guests

Even with a negative test, unvaccinated travelers may face additional restrictions:

• Mandatory health screenings at embarkation and re-boarding.
• Limited access to certain venues (e.g., spas, buffets) during peak hours.
• Requirement to wear masks in crowded areas (varies by line).

Example: On a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, unvaccinated guests may be asked to use a separate elevator bank or dining area during busy times to reduce contact with others.

Regional Variations: How Destinations Affect Cruise Vaccination Rules

One of the most confusing aspects of cruise travel is that local laws in ports of call can override cruise line policies. This means a cruise that allows unvaccinated guests from the U.S. may still require vaccination if it stops in a country with strict entry rules.

Countries That Still Require Vaccination for Entry

As of 2024, the following destinations may require vaccination for cruise passengers:

• Canada: Requires all visitors to be fully vaccinated unless exempt for medical reasons. Exempt travelers must provide a negative test and may be subject to quarantine.
• Bermuda: Requires vaccination for all non-residents aged 12+.
• Australia and New Zealand: Require vaccination for entry, though cruise-specific exemptions may apply.
• Some Caribbean Nations: While most Caribbean islands (e.g., Jamaica, Barbados) no longer require vaccination, a few smaller nations (e.g., St. Kitts) may still enforce rules during outbreaks.

Example: A 10-day Royal Caribbean cruise from Miami to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and San Juan (Puerto Rico) may allow unvaccinated guests—but if the ship makes a last-minute change and adds a stop in Bermuda, vaccination becomes mandatory.

How Cruise Lines Communicate Last-Minute Changes

Cruise lines typically update their health requirements 30–60 days before departure. You’ll receive an email notification, but it’s your responsibility to check the official cruise line website for updates. Key sections to monitor:

• “Travel Requirements” or “Health & Safety” page.
• “Itinerary-Specific Guidelines” for your cruise.
• “Destination Entry Rules” for each port.

Tip: Set up Google Alerts for your cruise line and destination to catch policy changes in real time.

What to Do If a Port Requires Vaccination

If your cruise line allows unvaccinated guests but a port of call does not, you have two options:

1. Stay onboard: Most cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests to skip the port visit and remain on the ship. This is free of charge.
2. Cancel the cruise: If the port is a must-see, you may request a refund or credit. However, cruise lines are not obligated to provide compensation for itinerary changes due to health regulations.

Future Trends: Will Vaccination Requirements Return?

The cruise industry is in a state of flux. While most lines have dropped vaccine mandates, the door remains open for stricter rules in the event of a new variant, public health emergency, or regulatory shift. Here’s what to expect in the coming years.

Monitoring Public Health Trends

Cruise lines closely watch data from the CDC, WHO, and local health authorities. If a new variant causes a surge in cases or hospitalizations, lines may reintroduce vaccination requirements—even if only temporarily. For example, in late 2023, several lines briefly reinstated testing and mask rules during a winter wave of respiratory illnesses.

Industry-Wide Standardization Efforts

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is working toward a unified health framework. While full standardization is unlikely, there’s growing pressure for consistent testing, reporting, and communication protocols. This could lead to a “global health passport” system, where digital health credentials (like the EU Digital Green Certificate) are used to verify testing and vaccination status.

The Rise of “Health-First” Cruising

Even as mandates fade, cruise lines are investing in long-term health infrastructure:

• Improved air filtration and UV disinfection systems.
• Onboard medical centers with telehealth support.
• Flexible booking policies that allow free changes due to illness.

This shift suggests that while vaccination may no longer be required, health preparedness will remain a priority for both cruise lines and travelers.

Advice for Unvaccinated Travelers in 2024 and Beyond

Stay informed, be flexible, and plan ahead. Consider:

• Booking cruises with multiple departure ports to avoid destinations with strict rules.
• Choosing shorter itineraries (3–5 days) to reduce the risk of port-specific complications.
• Traveling during off-peak seasons when health policies are less likely to change abruptly.

Conclusion: Your Guide to Sailing Unvaccinated in 2024

The short answer to “Do any cruise lines not require Covid vaccination?” is a resounding yes—but with important caveats. Most major cruise lines now allow unvaccinated travelers, provided they submit a negative test result and comply with additional health protocols. However, policies vary by line, itinerary, and destination, and the risk of last-minute changes remains.

For unvaccinated cruisers, success lies in preparation: book compliant tests early, verify port entry rules, and stay updated on policy changes. While luxury and expedition lines are more likely to maintain strict requirements, mainstream operators like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian offer viable options. And if your heart is set on a Disney or Holland America cruise, don’t give up—exemption processes exist, even if they’re challenging.

As the cruise industry evolves, one thing is clear: flexibility, transparency, and health awareness will define the future of travel. Whether you’re unvaccinated for medical, personal, or religious reasons, there are more opportunities than ever to set sail. By understanding the rules, respecting the process, and planning with care, you can enjoy the freedom of the open sea—safely and confidently.

Cruise Line	Vaccine Required?	Test Required for Unvaccinated?	Exemptions Available?	Notes
Royal Caribbean	No (most sailings)	Yes (72-hour test)	No	Testing mandatory for all unvaccinated guests 5+
Carnival Cruise Line	No (most sailings)	Yes (72-hour test)	No	Waiver and health form required
Norwegian Cruise Line	No (U.S./Europe)	Yes (72-hour test)	No	Canada-bound cruises require vaccination
MSC Cruises	Region-dependent	Yes (if unvaccinated)	No	Check itinerary-specific rules
Disney Cruise Line	Yes (5+)	Yes (if exempt)	Yes (medical/religious)	Exemption process is strict and not guaranteed
Holland America	Yes (5+)	Yes (if exempt)	Yes (medical only)	Exemption must be submitted 30+ days in advance
Princess Cruises	Yes (5+)	Yes (if exempt)	Yes (medical only)	May restrict access to certain onboard areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any cruise lines not require COVID vaccination for passengers?

Yes, several cruise lines have relaxed their policies, and some no longer require COVID-19 vaccination for passengers. However, unvaccinated travelers may need to provide a negative test result before boarding. Always check the specific cruise line’s latest guidelines before booking.

Which cruise lines don’t require COVID vaccination in 2024?

As of 2024, cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian have dropped mandatory vaccination requirements for most itineraries. Unvaccinated guests might still face testing or documentation rules depending on the destination. Verify directly with the cruise line or your travel agent.

Can unvaccinated people cruise without restrictions?

Some cruise lines allow unvaccinated travelers, but they may require pre-trip testing or proof of recovery from COVID-19. Restrictions can vary by destination, so review the cruise line’s health protocols carefully. Policies are subject to change based on local regulations.

Do any cruise lines not require COVID vaccination but still require testing?

Yes, many cruise lines that no longer mandate vaccination still require a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) before embarkation for unvaccinated guests. This rule often applies to specific regions or high-risk destinations. Confirm testing requirements when booking.

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

Most major cruise lines have lifted vaccination requirements for children, aligning with adult policies. However, age-specific testing or health documentation may apply for unvaccinated kids. Check the cruise line’s policy for minors before finalizing your trip.

Do any cruise lines not require COVID vaccination but enforce mask mandates?

While most cruise lines have dropped mask mandates, a few may still require masks in crowded areas or during outbreaks, regardless of vaccination status. This varies by ship and itinerary, so review the cruise line’s onboard health protocols before departure.