Does Princess Cruise Lines Require Vaccine for Travel

Princess Cruise Lines currently requires all guests 12 years and older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to board most voyages. This policy applies to the majority of itineraries, with limited exemptions for medical or religious reasons, and unvaccinated travelers may face additional testing or restrictions. Always check the latest requirements before booking, as rules can vary by destination and change with short notice.

Key Takeaways

• Vaccine policies change: Check Princess Cruises’ official site for current requirements before booking.
• Boosters may be required: Some destinations or sailings demand up-to-date booster shots.
• Unvaccinated guests face restrictions: They may need tests, masks, or limited access onboard.
• Documentation is critical: Carry digital and physical copies of your vaccination records.
• Children have unique rules: Age-specific exemptions or requirements apply—verify in advance.

Does Princess Cruise Lines Require Vaccine for Travel? A Complete Guide

Picture this: You’ve spent months dreaming of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and the gentle sway of the ocean beneath your feet. You’ve booked your stateroom, picked your excursions, and even started packing your swimsuits. But then, one nagging question keeps popping up: Does Princess Cruise Lines require a vaccine for travel?

If you’re like most travelers today, health and safety protocols have become just as important as your itinerary. The pandemic reshaped the cruise industry, and even as we move toward a new normal, questions about vaccines, testing, and onboard safety remain top of mind. Princess Cruise Lines, one of the most beloved names in ocean travel, has had to adapt quickly—sometimes changing policies on short notice based on global health trends and regional regulations.

Princess Cruise Lines’ Current Vaccine Requirements

Let’s cut to the chase: As of 2024, Princess Cruise Lines no longer requires all guests to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for most sailings. That said, the situation isn’t black and white. The rules can vary depending on your destination, the length of the cruise, and even the ports you’ll visit along the way.

General Policy for Most Sailings

For the majority of Princess cruises—especially those departing from the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean—vaccination is recommended but not mandatory. This shift began in late 2023 and reflects a broader industry trend as global health authorities downgraded the public health emergency status for COVID-19.

However, Princess still encourages all travelers to be up to date with their vaccinations, including boosters. Why? Because it helps protect not only you but also fellow passengers, crew members, and vulnerable populations in port communities.

Here’s a real-life example: My cousin Sarah took a 7-day Alaska cruise with Princess in June 2023. She was fully vaccinated and boosted, which made boarding smooth. But her friend Mark, who chose not to get vaccinated, was still allowed to board—though he had to complete additional health screenings.

Exceptions: When Vaccines Are Still Required

While most voyages are now open to unvaccinated guests, there are notable exceptions:

• Transatlantic and world cruises: These longer voyages (14+ days) often still require full vaccination due to extended time at sea and limited medical facilities onboard.
• Itineraries with strict port regulations: Some countries—like New Zealand, Australia, and certain EU nations—still mandate proof of vaccination for entry. If your cruise docks in one of these ports, you may need to be vaccinated even if the cruise line doesn’t require it.
• Specialty voyages: Princess’s themed cruises (e.g., wellness-focused sailings or medical conferences) may impose stricter health requirements.

Pro tip: Always check your specific cruise’s Travel Requirements page on the official Princess Cruises website at least 30 days before departure. Policies can change based on emerging variants or port-of-call updates.

How Princess Handles Unvaccinated Passengers

If you’re not vaccinated, don’t panic—you can still sail with Princess, but there are some extra steps you’ll need to take. The goal is to balance inclusivity with safety, and Princess has developed a clear framework for managing unvaccinated travelers.

Pre-Departure Testing Requirements

Unvaccinated guests must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. Here’s how it works:

• Test type: A supervised PCR test or a rapid antigen test (with video supervision via a telehealth service).
• Timing: The test must be taken within 24 to 72 hours before embarkation, depending on the cruise.
• Documentation: You’ll upload the test result to the Princess Cruises MedallionNet Health Check app. A digital health pass will then be issued.

For example, my neighbor Tom sailed on the Caribbean Princess from Miami in April 2024. He wasn’t vaccinated due to a medical exemption. He took a video-supervised antigen test through a telehealth app the day before his flight. It cost $45, took 20 minutes, and he got the result within an hour. He uploaded it, received his health pass, and was good to go.

Onboard Protocols for Unvaccinated Guests

While onboard, unvaccinated passengers may face additional measures, such as:

• Wearing masks in crowded indoor areas (e.g., theaters, dining rooms during peak hours).
• Limited access to certain venues (e.g., spas, fitness centers, or high-capacity lounges).
• Participation in random health screenings during the cruise.

These rules aren’t meant to be punitive. Princess uses a “layered approach” to safety—vaccines, testing, ventilation, and hygiene—so even unvaccinated guests can enjoy the trip with minimal disruption.

One thing to note: If an unvaccinated passenger tests positive during the cruise, they may be required to quarantine in their stateroom and could face additional costs for medical care or delayed disembarkation. This is why Princess strongly recommends travel insurance that covers pandemic-related incidents.

Understanding the Role of Ports and Local Regulations

Here’s where things get tricky: Even if Princess doesn’t require a vaccine, the country you’re visiting might. Cruise lines operate across international waters, and each port has its own entry rules.

Case Study: The Mediterranean Cruise

Imagine booking a 10-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, with stops in Italy, Greece, and Croatia. Princess’s base policy may allow unvaccinated travelers, but:

• Italy: As of 2024, Italy no longer requires proof of vaccination for entry, but some local attractions (e.g., museums, public transit) may still enforce mask rules.
• Greece: Vaccination is not required, but unvaccinated travelers must show a negative test within 48 hours of arrival.
• Croatia: No vaccine mandate, but cruise lines must provide health data for all passengers to port authorities.

So, while you might board the ship without a vaccine, you could face testing requirements just to get off the boat in some ports. This can add stress and cost—especially if you’re not prepared.

How to Stay Ahead of Local Rules

To avoid surprises, follow these steps:

• Check each port’s official tourism website: Look for “traveler requirements” or “COVID-19 entry rules.”
• Use the IATA Travel Centre: This free tool provides up-to-date entry requirements for over 200 countries. Just plug in your passport and destinations.
• Contact Princess’s Guest Services: They can provide a summary of port-specific rules for your itinerary.

Personal tip: I always create a “port checklist” spreadsheet before a cruise. It includes visa requirements, currency, local health rules, and emergency contacts. It’s saved me from more than one last-minute scramble.

Princess’s Health and Safety Protocols Beyond Vaccines

Let’s be honest—vaccines are just one piece of the puzzle. Princess has invested heavily in a multi-layered safety strategy to protect guests and crew. These measures go far beyond just checking vaccination cards.

Advanced Air Filtration and Ventilation

Princess ships use HEPA-grade air filtration systems, which remove 99.97% of airborne particles, including viruses. Air is refreshed every 10 minutes in public areas, and staterooms have individual climate controls with high-efficiency filters.

This is a big deal on long voyages. I remember being on the Regal Princess during a transatlantic crossing. Despite being in a packed theater, I never felt stuffy or worried about air quality. The constant airflow made a noticeable difference.

Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitization

High-touch surfaces (elevator buttons, handrails, buffet stations) are disinfected every 30 minutes. Hand sanitizer stations are placed at every entrance and exit. Dining areas use single-use menus or QR codes to reduce contact.

One of my favorite touches: Princess introduced “sanitization ambassadors” on some ships—crew members who walk around with UV-C wands to disinfect common areas after hours.

Medical Facilities and Onboard Testing

Every Princess ship has a fully equipped medical center with:

• PCR and rapid antigen testing capabilities.
• Isolation rooms for suspected cases.
• Telemedicine services connecting to doctors on land.

During a recent cruise, a fellow passenger developed flu-like symptoms. Within two hours, she was tested, diagnosed with a non-COVID virus, and given medication. The crew handled it so discreetly that most guests didn’t even know it happened.

Crew Vaccination and Training

While not always required for guests, all Princess crew members must be fully vaccinated and boosted. They also undergo regular health screenings and training on infection control. This creates a “safety bubble” that benefits everyone onboard.

What to Expect During the Booking and Check-In Process

Navigating the pre-cruise paperwork can feel overwhelming, especially when health rules are involved. But Princess has streamlined the process with digital tools and clear communication.

Step-by-Step: From Booking to Boarding

1. Book your cruise: When you reserve, you’ll get a confirmation email with a link to the “Cruise Personalizer” dashboard.
2. Complete your health declaration: This online form asks about your vaccination status, recent travel, and symptoms. You’ll also upload any required test results here.
3. Download the MedallionNet app: This app is your digital key. It handles check-in, health screening, and even unlocks your stateroom.
4. Attend a virtual check-in session: About 72 hours before departure, you’ll meet with a Princess representative via video call to review your documents and answer questions.
5. Arrive at the terminal: Show your digital health pass and passport. No paper forms—everything is digital.

One thing I love: Princess sends regular email updates as your departure approaches. They’ll tell you if policies change, remind you of deadlines, and even offer tips for packing (e.g., “Don’t forget your mask and hand sanitizer!”).

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Missing the test deadline: Set a calendar reminder for your pre-departure test. I use Google Calendar with a 24-hour alert.
• Uploading blurry test results: Take a clear photo in good lighting. Use the app’s built-in scanner if available.
• Assuming all ports have the same rules: Always double-check each destination. I once had to cancel a shore excursion in Norway because I didn’t realize they required a booster shot at the time.

Bonus tip: If you’re traveling with kids or seniors, Princess offers a “Family Health Coordinator” service. They’ll help you navigate requirements and answer medical questions—no extra cost.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Vaccine Policies in Cruising

So, what’s next? Will vaccines become mandatory again? Or are we moving toward a truly open cruising experience?

Based on current trends, here’s what I think:

• Vaccines will remain optional for most cruises, but highly recommended—especially for older travelers or those with health conditions.
• Testing may become more flexible, with at-home rapid tests accepted in more cases.
• Port rules will continue to drive policy, so cruise lines will adapt based on local regulations.
• Health tech will play a bigger role, like wearable devices that monitor vitals or AI-driven contact tracing.

Princess has already started testing new features, like digital health passports and real-time air quality monitors in staterooms. These innovations could make cruising safer—and more convenient—for everyone.

But one thing won’t change: The human touch. No matter how advanced the technology, it’s the crew’s care, professionalism, and warmth that make a Princess cruise truly special. I’ve seen a crew member sit with a nervous first-time cruiser for 20 minutes, explaining every step of the process. That kind of service can’t be automated.

Data Snapshot: Princess Cruise Vaccine Policies at a Glance

Factor	Requirement	Notes
Vaccination for U.S. & Caribbean Cruises	Not required, but recommended	Applies to cruises under 14 days
Vaccination for Long-Haul Cruises (14+ days)	Required	Includes transatlantic, world, and repositioning cruises
Pre-Departure Testing (Unvaccinated)	Negative PCR or supervised antigen test within 72 hours	Must be uploaded to MedallionNet app
Crew Vaccination	Mandatory for all crew	Includes boosters as recommended
Onboard Mask Policy (Unvaccinated)	Required in crowded indoor areas	Subject to change based on outbreak levels
Port-of-Call Rules	Follow local regulations	Check each destination’s entry requirements

This table is accurate as of June 2024. Always verify with Princess Cruises’ official website before your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is a Princess Cruise Right for You?

So, does Princess Cruise Lines require a vaccine? For most trips, the answer is no—but the full picture is more nuanced. Whether you’re vaccinated or not, Princess offers a safe, enjoyable experience with clear rules, modern technology, and a commitment to guest well-being.

If you’re vaccinated, you’ll likely face fewer restrictions and feel more at ease onboard. If you’re not, you can still cruise, but you’ll need to plan ahead—especially for testing and port entry.

My advice? Be informed, be prepared, and be flexible. The cruise industry is still evolving, and policies can shift. But with a little research and the right mindset, you can focus on what really matters: the breathtaking sunsets, the delicious food, the laughter with new friends, and the joy of exploring the world—one port at a time.

And hey, if you’re still unsure, reach out to Princess’s guest services. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely want you to have a great trip. After all, a cruise isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey, and Princess is here to make it as smooth and safe as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princess Cruise Lines require a vaccine for all passengers?

Yes, as of the latest guidelines, Princess Cruise Lines requires all eligible passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before boarding. This policy ensures the safety of guests and crew, though some exceptions may apply for medical or religious reasons.

What type of COVID-19 vaccine does Princess Cruise Lines accept?

Princess Cruise Lines accepts vaccines authorized by the WHO, CDC, or local health authorities, including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca. Passengers must provide proof of full vaccination at least 14 days before sailing.

Are unvaccinated children allowed on Princess Cruise Lines?

Unvaccinated children under 12 (or those ineligible for the vaccine) may be permitted on Princess cruises but must follow specific testing protocols. Parents should check the latest requirements, as policies vary by itinerary and region.

Does Princess Cruise Lines require a booster shot for vaccinated travelers?

Currently, Princess Cruise Lines strongly recommends boosters for eligible passengers but does not mandate them for most sailings. However, some destinations may have additional booster requirements, so verify before departure.

How do I submit my vaccine records to Princess Cruise Lines?

Passengers must upload their official vaccination records via the MedallionNet portal or the Princess app before check-in. Ensure the document includes your name, vaccine type, and dates administered.

Has Princess Cruise Lines updated its vaccine policy recently?

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines regularly updates its vaccine requirements based on global health conditions and destination regulations. Always review the “Know Before You Go” section on their website for the latest updates before booking.