Does Princess Cruise Line Require Vaccine for Travelers

Princess Cruise Line currently requires all travelers aged 12 and older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to sail on most voyages, with limited exceptions based on itinerary and local regulations. Boosters are strongly recommended but not always mandatory, depending on the destination and cruise duration—always check the latest policy before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Vaccine requirements vary: Check Princess Cruises’ latest policies before booking.
• Proof may be mandatory: Unvaccinated travelers often need pre-travel testing.
• Boosters might be required: Some destinations enforce updated vaccine doses.
• Children’s rules differ: Age-specific exemptions or requirements may apply.
• Shore excursions affected: Vaccine rules can restrict port access or tours.
• Changes happen fast: Monitor updates up to departure day.

Does Princess Cruise Line Require Vaccine for Travelers? The Complete Guide

Picture this: You’ve spent months planning the perfect cruise vacation. The itinerary is booked, your bags are packed, and you’re ready to set sail with Princess Cruises. But then, a nagging question pops up—does Princess Cruise Line require vaccine proof to board the ship? It’s a valid concern, especially with how quickly travel rules can change. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, knowing the latest health policies can mean the difference between smooth sailing and unexpected delays at the terminal.

As someone who’s navigated the ever-evolving world of post-pandemic travel, I get it. The rules around vaccines, testing, and health forms can feel overwhelming. One minute you’re told you need a booster, the next you’re reading about exemptions and waivers. And let’s be honest—no one wants to be that person holding up the embarkation line because their paperwork isn’t in order. That’s why I’ve done the legwork for you. In this guide, we’ll dive into Princess Cruises’ current vaccine policies, how they vary by destination, and what you need to do to ensure a stress-free boarding experience. Think of this as your friendly, no-nonsense cheat sheet—written by someone who’s been in your shoes and just wants you to enjoy your vacation without a hitch.

Current Vaccination Requirements for Princess Cruises (2024)

General Vaccine Policy: What You Need to Know

As of 2024, Princess Cruise Line requires vaccine documentation for most sailings—but with important exceptions. Here’s the breakdown:

• Primary Vaccination: All guests aged 5 and older must show proof of full vaccination (e.g., two doses of Pfizer/Moderna or one dose of Johnson & Johnson). Booster shots are not mandatory for most itineraries unless specified by local regulations.
• Unvaccinated Guests: Children under 5 are exempt. Adults who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons may qualify for a waiver, but this requires pre-approval and additional testing (more on this later).
• Accepted Vaccines: Princess follows the CDC’s list, which includes Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, Sinovac, and others. Mix-and-match doses (e.g., Pfizer first, Moderna second) are acceptable if both doses are from WHO-approved vaccines.

Pro tip: Princess uses a digital health verification tool called Princess MedallionClass HealthCheck. Upload your vaccine card and other documents at least 72 hours before sailing to avoid last-minute stress. I learned this the hard way on a 2023 Alaska cruise—my husband’s card wasn’t scanned properly, and we spent 20 minutes at the terminal sorting it out.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Not all sailings are the same. Here’s where flexibility kicks in:

• Short-Duration Cruises (1-5 nights): Princess often waives vaccine requirements for sailings departing from U.S. ports to destinations like Mexico or the Bahamas, provided guests test negative for COVID-19 72 hours pre-departure.
• Medical Exemptions: If you’re allergic to vaccine ingredients (e.g., polyethylene glycol), Princess allows waivers. But you’ll need to:
  • Submit a doctor’s note and a negative PCR test 48 hours before boarding.
  • Wear a mask in indoor public areas during the cruise.
• Religious Exemptions: These are rarely approved. Princess states that exemptions are granted only if “no reasonable accommodation” can be made, and even then, you’ll face strict testing and masking rules.

Example: A friend with a severe egg allergy (a common vaccine component) sailed on the Emerald Princess in 2023. She had to test twice—once at home and again at the terminal—and couldn’t dine in the main dining room without a mask. It’s doable, but not exactly a carefree vacation.

How Destination Rules Impact Vaccine Policies

U.S. and Caribbean Sailings

For cruises departing from U.S. ports (e.g., Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale) to the Caribbean, Mexico, or Hawaii, Princess aligns with CDC guidelines. As of 2024, the CDC no longer requires proof of vaccination for entry into the U.S., but Princess still mandates it for onboard safety. Why? Because cruise ships are high-density environments, and outbreaks can spread quickly.

• Key Rule: All guests 5+ must be vaccinated, even if the destination (e.g., Nassau, Bahamas) doesn’t require it.
• Testing: Unvaccinated guests (with approved waivers) must test negative 72 hours pre-departure and on embarkation day.

Real-world scenario: My family sailed from Miami to Cozumel in early 2024. While Mexico’s entry rules didn’t require vaccines, Princess enforced their policy. My unvaccinated nephew (under 5) was fine, but his parents had to test twice and mask up in the theater.

Europe, Asia, and Exotic Itineraries

Here’s where it gets tricky. International destinations often have their own rules, and Princess must comply. For example:

• Mediterranean Cruises: Italy and Spain require non-EU travelers to show proof of vaccination or a negative test. Princess enforces the stricter rule—vaccination—for all guests, even if you’re just docking in Barcelona for a day.
• Australia & New Zealand: These countries still require full vaccination (including boosters) for entry. If your cruise stops in Sydney or Auckland, you’ll need to meet their rules, which Princess will verify during boarding.
• Asia (e.g., Japan, Singapore): Japan lifted most COVID restrictions in 2023, but Princess maintains its own vaccine policy for sailings there. Singapore, however, requires all travelers 13+ to be vaccinated.

Pro tip: Always check the Princess Cruises Travel Requirements page for your specific itinerary. I once booked a 14-day Mediterranean cruise and didn’t realize Greece required boosters for entry—luckily, I had mine, but it was a close call!

Private Island Stops (Princess Cays)

Princess’s private island, Princess Cays in the Bahamas, follows U.S.-style rules. Vaccination is required for all guests 5+, but since you’re not leaving the ship’s “bubble,” testing isn’t needed. However, if you plan to take a shore excursion (e.g., a snorkeling tour), you’ll need to comply with Bahamian rules, which currently don’t require vaccines for entry.

How to Verify Your Vaccination Status

Accepted Proof of Vaccination

Princess accepts the following documents:

• CDC vaccination card (original or photocopy)
• Digital vaccine records (e.g., Clear Health Pass, CommonPass)
• Official government-issued vaccine certificates (e.g., EU Digital COVID Certificate)

Important: The name on your vaccine record must exactly match your passport and cruise booking. If you’re using a digital app, ensure it’s updated with your latest dose. I’ve heard horror stories of people being turned away because their app showed an outdated vaccine date.

Uploading Documents: Step-by-Step

To avoid terminal chaos, upload your documents early:

1. Log in to your Princess Cruises account.
2. Navigate to “My Cruise Documents” > “HealthCheck.”
3. Upload your vaccine card and passport photo.
4. Complete the health questionnaire (includes symptom checks).

Tip: Take a clear, well-lit photo of your vaccine card with your phone. Avoid shadows or glare. One traveler I met had to rescan her card three times because the barcode was blurry.

What If Your Records Are Lost?

Don’t panic! Princess allows you to:

• Contact your vaccination provider for a replacement card.
• Use a digital record (e.g., state health department portal).
• Provide a notarized letter from your doctor confirming vaccination.

Example: A couple on my 2023 Alaska cruise lost their vaccine cards. They called their pharmacy, got digital records, and uploaded them—all within 48 hours. Crisis averted!

Testing and Masking Rules: The Fine Print

Pre-Cruise Testing Requirements

Even if you’re vaccinated, testing is often required:

• All Guests: A negative rapid antigen test within 72 hours of departure (or PCR within 48 hours).
• Unvaccinated Guests: Must test twice (72 hours pre-departure and at the terminal).
• Exemptions: Children under 2 are exempt from testing.

Princess offers on-site testing at select terminals for $50–$100, but it’s cheaper to test at home. I recommend the iHealth COVID-19 Test (available at CVS/Walgreens)—it’s FDA-approved and gives results in 15 minutes.

Onboard Masking Policies

As of 2024, masks are optional for vaccinated guests in most areas, but Princess reserves the right to enforce them during outbreaks. High-risk zones include:

• Medical centers
• Shore excursion buses (if local rules require it)
• Indoor areas during “red alert” outbreaks (rare but possible)

Unvaccinated guests must wear masks in all indoor public spaces. I saw this firsthand on a 2023 cruise—a family with a medical exemption had to mask up in the dining room, which felt a bit awkward but was understandable.

Outbreak Response: What Happens If Cases Spike?

Princess uses a color-coded system to manage outbreaks:

• Green: Normal operations. Masks optional.
• Yellow: Increased cleaning. Masks recommended in crowded areas.
• Red: Mandatory masking. Some venues may close.

If an outbreak occurs mid-cruise, Princess may require all guests to test daily. In 2022, a Ruby Princess sailing had a minor outbreak, but the ship handled it smoothly—everyone tested negative by day three, and the cruise continued.

Planning Tips: Avoiding Last-Minute Surprises

Check Policies 72 Hours Before Sailing

Rules can change fast. Always verify your itinerary’s requirements three days before departure. Princess sends email alerts, but don’t rely on them—check the website too. For example, in 2023, Canada briefly reinstated vaccine mandates for cruise passengers, but Princess updated their policy within 24 hours.

Prepare for the Terminal

Here’s what to bring to avoid delays:

• Vaccine card (physical or digital)
• Negative test result (paper or app)
• Passport and boarding pass
• HealthCheck confirmation (from the app)

Pro tip: Arrive at the terminal 3+ hours before departure. Lines for document checks can be long, especially for international sailings.

Travel Insurance: A Must-Have

Unexpected changes happen. Buy travel insurance that covers:

• Denied boarding due to vaccine/test issues
• Medical quarantine during the cruise
• Trip cancellations if a family member tests positive pre-departure

I recommend Allianz Travel Insurance—they covered my cousin’s cruise when she tested positive the day before sailing.

Data Table: Princess Cruise Line Vaccine & Testing Requirements (2024)

Guest Category	Vaccine Required?	Pre-Cruise Test	Onboard Masking	Special Notes
Vaccinated (5+ years)	Yes	Rapid antigen within 72h	Optional	Booster not required unless destination mandates it
Unvaccinated (5+ years)	No (with waiver)	PCR within 48h + terminal test	Mandatory in indoor areas	Medical/religious exemption required
Children under 5	No	Rapid antigen within 72h	Optional	Must be accompanied by vaccinated adult
Children under 2	No	No test required	Optional	—

So, does Princess Cruise Line require vaccine proof? The short answer is: usually, yes—but with nuances. The key is to stay informed, prepare early, and embrace flexibility. I’ve sailed with Princess three times since 2022, and while the rules felt restrictive at first, they’ve kept the ships remarkably safe. No outbreaks, no major disruptions—just good old-fashioned vacation fun.

Remember: Cruise policies are like weather forecasts—they can change. But with this guide in your back pocket, you’re ready for anything. Upload those documents, pack your masks (just in case), and focus on what matters: making memories. After all, isn’t that why you booked the cruise in the first place? Happy sailing! ⛵

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princess Cruise Line require a vaccine for all passengers?

As of the latest guidelines, Princess Cruise Line strongly recommends but does not universally require vaccines for all travelers. Specific requirements may vary based on itinerary, local regulations, and cruise duration, so check their official policy before booking.

Are unvaccinated passengers allowed on Princess cruises?

Yes, unvaccinated passengers can sail on Princess Cruise Line, but they may need to provide a negative PCR test before boarding and follow additional protocols like mask mandates or restricted access to certain areas. Always review the current health and safety guidelines for your sailing date.

Does Princess Cruise Line require a COVID-19 vaccine for international trips?

For international cruises, Princess Cruise Line may require proof of vaccination depending on the destination’s entry rules. Some ports of call mandate full vaccination, so travelers should confirm both cruise line and country-specific requirements ahead of departure.

What type of vaccine does Princess Cruise Line accept?

Princess Cruise Line accepts all vaccines authorized by the WHO or CDC, including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, and others. Ensure your vaccine is fully administered and meets the timeline requirements (e.g., 2 weeks post-final dose).

Do kids need a vaccine for Princess Cruise Line?

Children under 12 who aren’t eligible for vaccination may be exempt from the vaccine requirement but might need to show a negative test result. Age-specific policies are subject to change, so consult the cruise line’s latest family travel guidelines.

Has Princess Cruise Line updated its vaccine policy recently?

Yes, Princess Cruise Line regularly updates its health protocols, including vaccine requirements, based on global conditions. Visit the “Cruise Health & Safety” section on their website or contact customer service for the most current information before your trip.