Does Princess Cruise Lines Require Covid Vaccine What You Need to Know

Princess Cruise Lines no longer requires COVID-19 vaccination for most voyages as of 2023, but policies may vary by itinerary and local regulations. Always check the latest pre-travel requirements for your specific sailing, as rules can change based on destination, cruise length, and public health guidelines. Unvaccinated guests may need to provide a negative test or meet other entry protocols depending on the port of departure.

Key Takeaways

• Vaccination required: Princess Cruises mandates COVID-19 vaccines for most sailings.
• Check exemptions: Medical or religious waivers may apply—verify before booking.
• Boosters recommended: Stay updated with booster doses per cruise guidelines.
• Documentation needed: Carry proof of vaccination for boarding and excursions.
• Rules vary: Requirements differ by destination—review policies for each itinerary.
• Stay informed: Policies change frequently; check the official website before departure.

Does Princess Cruise Lines Require Covid Vaccine? What You Need to Know

For many travelers, the idea of setting sail on a luxurious cruise is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cruising industry has undergone significant changes to ensure the safety of passengers and crew alike. Among the most pressing questions for prospective cruisers is whether Princess Cruise Lines requires a COVID-19 vaccine for embarkation. With health protocols evolving and regional regulations varying, understanding the current policies can be confusing—especially for families, seniors, and international travelers with differing vaccination statuses.

Princess Cruise Lines, a leader in global cruising with a legacy spanning over 50 years, has consistently adapted its health and safety measures in response to public health guidance and government mandates. While the cruise line has relaxed many of its pandemic-era restrictions, vaccination requirements remain a nuanced topic. Whether you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, an Alaskan adventure, or a transatlantic journey, knowing the latest vaccination policies is crucial to avoid last-minute surprises. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the current rules, exceptions, testing protocols, and practical tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding process. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: Does Princess Cruise Lines require a COVID vaccine?

Current Vaccination Requirements for Princess Cruise Lines

As of 2024, Princess Cruise Lines has adopted a flexible vaccination policy that varies depending on the departure country, itinerary, and local regulations. Unlike the strict mandates of 2021–2022, the cruise line now operates under a tiered system that prioritizes both passenger safety and travel accessibility. Here’s what you need to know about the current requirements.

General Policy for U.S. Departures

For cruises departing from U.S. ports—such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, or Seattle—Princess Cruise Lines does not currently require all passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, proof of vaccination is strongly recommended and may still be required under certain circumstances:

• Guests aged 12 and older are encouraged to be up to date with their primary series and booster doses.
• Unvaccinated passengers (including those with medical or religious exemptions) may be required to provide a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours before embarkation.
• Onboard medical facilities may prioritize vaccinated guests during outbreaks.

For example, a family of four traveling from Los Angeles to Mexico on the Discovery Princess in June 2024 would not need to show vaccine cards unless one member is unvaccinated. In that case, the unvaccinated traveler must complete a pre-departure test and may face additional screening during embarkation.

International and Non-U.S. Departures

For cruises originating outside the U.S., the rules can differ significantly. Princess Cruise Lines complies with the health regulations of the country where the ship departs. This means:

• Canada: Vaccination is no longer required for Canadian departures, but unvaccinated travelers may need to test before boarding.
• UK and Europe: Most European ports (e.g., Southampton, Barcelona, Rome) follow the EU’s “Digital Green Certificate” framework, which no longer mandates vaccination but may require testing for unvaccinated passengers.
• Australia and New Zealand: As of 2023, these countries have lifted vaccine mandates for cruise travel, but Princess may still recommend vaccination for itineraries involving high-risk regions.

Tip: Always check the Princess Cruise Health & Safety Portal for your specific departure country at least 14 days before sailing. Policies can change with little notice due to local outbreaks or government decisions.

Itinerary-Specific Rules

Some destinations—especially those with fragile healthcare systems or high transmission rates—may impose their own entry requirements. For instance:

• A 14-day Alaska cruise stopping in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan follows U.S. federal and Alaskan state guidelines, which currently do not require vaccines.
• However, a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise that includes stops in St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands) and Dominica might require unvaccinated passengers to test before reboarding, as Dominica has stricter health entry rules.

Princess Cruise Lines provides a Destination Requirements checklist in the “Cruise Personalizer” tool, which outlines testing, vaccination, and documentation needs for each port of call. Ignoring this could result in denied boarding at foreign stops.

Testing Protocols for Unvaccinated Passengers

Even if Princess doesn’t require vaccination, unvaccinated travelers must navigate a more complex set of testing rules. These protocols are designed to mitigate the risk of onboard outbreaks while allowing flexibility for those unable or unwilling to get vaccinated.

Pre-Departure Testing

Unvaccinated guests (including those with exemptions) must complete one of the following:

• A PCR test taken within 72 hours of embarkation.
• An FDA-approved rapid antigen test (self-administered or professional) taken within 24 hours of boarding.

Important: The test must be documented with the passenger’s name, date of birth, test type, date/time of sample collection, and result. A photo of the test result is not sufficient—Princess requires an official document from a lab, pharmacy, or healthcare provider.

Example: A 65-year-old passenger with a medical exemption from vaccination on a 10-day Panama Canal cruise must schedule a PCR test 48 hours before departure. The test result must be uploaded to the Princess MedallionClass app at least 24 hours before sailing.

Onboard Testing and Outbreak Response

If a passenger tests positive for COVID-19 during the cruise, Princess Cruise Lines follows a multi-tiered response protocol:

• The infected guest is isolated in a designated cabin.
• Close contacts are notified and may be required to test, regardless of vaccination status.
• Unvaccinated passengers who are exposed may be asked to quarantine or leave the ship at the next port.

In 2023, a Ruby Princess cruise in the Mediterranean reported a small outbreak. Unvaccinated passengers who had close contact with the infected individual were required to test daily and wear masks in public areas. Vaccinated guests faced no additional restrictions.

Cost and Reimbursement

Passengers are responsible for the cost of pre-departure and onboard testing. However, Princess offers limited reimbursement for:

• Pre-departure tests for unvaccinated guests (up to $100 per test, with receipts).
• Onboard PCR tests for suspected cases (covered under the cruise line’s health program).

Tip: Purchase travel insurance that covers pandemic-related expenses, including testing, quarantine, and trip interruption. Many providers (e.g., Allianz, Travel Guard) now include COVID-specific clauses.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Princess Cruise Lines recognizes that not all passengers can be vaccinated due to medical, religious, or age-related reasons. The cruise line provides a structured process for exemptions, but these come with additional responsibilities.

Medical Exemptions

Passengers with a documented medical condition (e.g., severe allergy to vaccine components, autoimmune disorder) may apply for a medical exemption. Requirements include:

• A signed letter from a licensed physician on official letterhead.
• Detailed explanation of the medical condition and why vaccination is contraindicated.
• Submission at least 30 days before sailing via the Princess Health & Safety Portal.

Note: Exemption requests are reviewed by Princess’s medical team and may take 10–14 days to process. Approval is not guaranteed.

Example: A 12-year-old with a rare anaphylactic reaction to the Pfizer vaccine received approval but was required to take a rapid antigen test 24 hours before boarding and wear a mask in indoor public areas.

Religious Exemptions

Princess Cruise Lines does not currently accept religious exemptions for U.S. departures. However, for international sailings where local laws permit religious accommodations, passengers may submit a formal request with:

• A letter from a religious leader.
• A personal statement explaining the religious objection.

Important: Religious exemptions are rarely granted and may still require pre-departure testing and onboard restrictions.

Age-Based Exemptions

Children under 5 years old are automatically exempt from vaccination requirements, as no COVID-19 vaccine is approved for this age group. However:

• Unvaccinated children aged 5–11 may be required to test before boarding, depending on the itinerary.
• Children 12+ are subject to the same rules as adults unless they have a medical exemption.

Tip: Families with young children should book cruises with flexible cancellation policies in case of last-minute health changes.

How to Prepare for Your Cruise: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Navigating the vaccination and testing requirements can feel overwhelming. To ensure a smooth experience, follow this practical checklist tailored to Princess Cruise Lines’ current policies.

Step 1: Check Your Itinerary and Departure Country

• Log in to the Princess Cruise Personalizer and review the “Health & Safety” tab.
• Note the vaccination and testing requirements for your departure country and each port of call.
• Set calendar reminders for key deadlines (e.g., 30 days for medical exemptions, 72 hours for tests).

Step 2: Determine Your Vaccination Status

• Fully vaccinated: No additional steps needed (but carry your vaccine card as backup).
• Unvaccinated: Schedule a pre-departure test and upload results to the app.
• Exempt: Submit exemption documents early and confirm approval before booking non-refundable expenses.

Step 3: Pack Essential Health Items

• Digital copies of vaccine cards, test results, and exemption letters.
• At least 5 rapid antigen tests (for emergencies or re-testing).
• N95 or KN95 masks (recommended for high-risk areas).
• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.

Step 4: Download the Princess MedallionClass App

• Use the app to upload health documents, check-in online, and receive real-time updates.
• Enable notifications for health alerts or itinerary changes.

Step 5: Arrive Early at the Port

• Arrive at least 3 hours before boarding to allow time for health screening.
• Bring physical copies of all documents (in case of technical issues).
• Be prepared to answer health screening questions (e.g., recent symptoms, exposure).

Frequently Updated Policies: What to Watch For

Princess Cruise Lines updates its health policies monthly based on global infection rates, government mandates, and public health guidance. Staying informed is critical to avoiding disruptions.

Monitoring Official Channels

• Bookmark the Princess Health & Safety Page and check it weekly.
• Subscribe to Princess’s email alerts for policy changes.
• Follow Princess on social media (Twitter, Facebook) for real-time updates during your cruise.

Recent Changes in 2024

• March 2024: Eliminated mandatory pre-departure testing for vaccinated U.S. guests.
• April 2024: Introduced optional “Wellness Cruises” with enhanced ventilation and on-demand testing.
• May 2024: Partnered with CVS and Walgreens to offer discounted pre-cruise testing for unvaccinated passengers.

Data Table: 2024 Vaccination and Testing Requirements by Departure Region

Departure Region	Vaccine Required?	Pre-Departure Test Required?	Exemptions Accepted?	Additional Notes
U.S. (All Ports)	No (Recommended)	Yes (Unvaccinated only)	Yes (Medical only)	Unvaccinated guests may face onboard restrictions.
Canada	No	Yes (Unvaccinated only)	Yes (Medical)	Follows Canadian government guidelines.
UK/Europe	No	Yes (Unvaccinated, per EU rules)	Yes (Medical/Religious, if local law permits)	Check individual port requirements.
Australia/NZ	No	No (As of May 2024)	Yes (Medical)	Recommend vaccination for high-risk itineraries.
Asia (Singapore, Japan)	Yes (For some ports)	Yes (All guests)	Yes (Medical)	Subject to strict local regulations; verify 30 days prior.

Conclusion: Navigating the New Normal of Cruise Travel

So, does Princess Cruise Lines require a COVID vaccine? The answer is nuanced: while vaccination is no longer mandatory for most itineraries, it remains a critical factor in your travel experience. Vaccinated passengers enjoy fewer restrictions, smoother boarding, and greater peace of mind. Unvaccinated guests, while still welcome, must adhere to testing protocols, potential exemptions, and onboard precautions that can add complexity and cost.

The key to a stress-free cruise is proactive preparation. Use the tools provided by Princess—like the Cruise Personalizer and MedallionClass app—to stay ahead of requirements. Monitor policy changes, pack essential health supplies, and consider the benefits of vaccination, especially for itineraries involving high-risk regions or vulnerable travelers. Remember, the goal of these policies is not to exclude, but to protect. By understanding and complying with the rules, you contribute to a safer, more enjoyable environment for everyone onboard.

As the world continues to adapt to the realities of a post-pandemic era, Princess Cruise Lines remains committed to balancing safety with the joy of exploration. Whether you’re sailing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or the South Pacific, your dream vacation is within reach—just plan wisely, stay informed, and set sail with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princess Cruise Lines require a COVID vaccine for all passengers?

Yes, as of the latest guidelines, Princess Cruise Lines requires all passengers aged 12 and older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This policy helps ensure the safety of guests and crew onboard.

What type of COVID vaccine does Princess Cruise Lines accept?

Princess Cruise Lines accepts vaccines authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the U.S. FDA, including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca. You must complete the full dosage schedule before sailing.

Are unvaccinated children allowed to sail with Princess Cruise Lines?

Unvaccinated children under 12 may be permitted to sail but must follow additional testing requirements and health protocols. Check the latest rules on the Princess Cruises website before booking.

Do I need a booster shot to meet Princess Cruise Lines’ vaccine requirements?

Currently, Princess Cruise Lines does not mandate booster shots for vaccinated passengers, but they are strongly recommended. Requirements may vary by itinerary, so review your cruise details carefully.

What proof of vaccination is required for Princess Cruise Lines?

You must provide an official vaccine record card or digital vaccination certificate showing your full vaccination status. This document must be submitted before boarding.

Does Princess Cruise Lines require a negative COVID test along with vaccination?

Yes, most sailings require a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 2 days before departure, even for vaccinated passengers. Specific testing rules depend on your itinerary and departure country.