Have Cruise Lines Start Sailing Again What You Need to Know

Cruise lines have resumed sailing with enhanced health protocols and flexible booking policies to ensure passenger safety and confidence. Most major operators now require vaccinations, pre-trip testing, and onboard mask mandates in high-traffic areas. Before booking, review each line’s specific requirements and itinerary changes to avoid disruptions and enjoy a worry-free voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Cruise lines have resumed sailing with enhanced health protocols and safety measures.
• Check vaccination requirements—most lines require full vaccination for all passengers.
• Review flexible booking policies to secure refunds or credits if plans change.
• Expect limited capacity and modified itineraries to comply with local regulations.
• Pack essential health supplies like masks and sanitizers for onboard safety.
• Verify destination entry rules—ports may have unique testing or documentation needs.

The Long-Awaited Return: Have Cruise Lines Start Sailing Again?

Remember the days when a cruise vacation meant boarding a floating city, sipping a cocktail by the pool, and waking up to a new skyline every morning? For many of us, those carefree moments feel like a distant memory. The global pandemic brought the cruise industry to a near standstill—ships sat idle in ports, itineraries were canceled, and travelers were left wondering: *When will cruises start sailing again?*

Well, the answer is: they already have. Cruise lines have been gradually resuming operations since 2021, with more ships returning to the seas each month. But it’s not as simple as flipping a switch. The return of cruise travel has been a careful, multi-step process shaped by health guidelines, government regulations, and passenger expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or someone considering their first voyage, understanding how and why cruise lines have started sailing again is essential. This isn’t just about booking a trip—it’s about knowing what’s changed, what’s safer, and what you should expect when you finally step back onboard.

How Cruise Lines Bounced Back: The Road to Resumption

The journey back to full operations wasn’t quick or easy. After months of silence, cruise lines faced immense pressure to rebuild trust, ensure safety, and adapt to a new travel reality. Here’s how they did it—and what it means for you.

Phased Restart with Pilot Programs

Instead of launching all ships at once, most major cruise lines adopted a phased restart strategy. For example, Royal Caribbean began with short “test cruises” in the Caribbean, carrying volunteer passengers and crew. These voyages weren’t about profit—they were about proving that enhanced health protocols could work in real-world conditions.

Similarly, Carnival Cruise Line launched its first post-pandemic voyage from Miami in July 2021, but only after completing a series of crew-only sailings and simulations. This cautious approach allowed companies to iron out kinks, train staff on new procedures, and gain confidence before opening to the public.

Tip: If you’re considering a cruise, check whether your chosen line has completed its initial restart phase. Ships that have been sailing for several months likely have more refined systems in place.

Collaboration with Health Authorities

One of the biggest hurdles was aligning with global and local health regulations. The CDC’s Conditional Sailing Order (CSO), introduced in October 2020, required U.S.-based cruise lines to meet strict criteria before resuming operations. These included:

• Testing all crew members regularly
• Implementing medical response plans
• Conducting mock outbreaks to test readiness
• Ensuring at least 95% of passengers and 98% of crew are fully vaccinated (on most lines)

Many cruise lines went beyond these requirements. For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced the “Peace of Mind” policy, allowing free cancellations up to 48 hours before sailing—a move that reassured hesitant travelers.

Relatable moment: I remember calling a customer service rep at Holland America, anxious about what would happen if my test came back positive. She calmly explained their medical protocols and even walked me through their onshore quarantine plan. That peace of mind made all the difference.

Investing in Technology and Infrastructure

To prevent outbreaks, cruise lines invested heavily in new technology. Air filtration systems were upgraded to HEPA standards, contactless check-ins became standard, and mobile apps were enhanced to reduce physical interactions.

Celebrity Cruises, for example, introduced Contactless Dining, where guests scan QR codes to view menus and place orders via their smartphones. Not only does this reduce touchpoints, but it also speeds up service—something my family appreciated during a recent Mediterranean cruise.

Some ships even installed thermal cameras at boarding gates to detect elevated body temperatures. While not foolproof, these measures add an extra layer of screening.

What’s Changed Onboard: New Health and Safety Measures

Walking onto a cruise ship today feels familiar—but different. The buffets, entertainment, and shore excursions are back, but they’re now wrapped in a new layer of safety. Here’s what you can expect.

Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitization

Gone are the days of a quick wipe-down. Now, high-touch surfaces like railings, elevator buttons, and door handles are disinfected every 30 minutes. Public restrooms are cleaned hourly, and staterooms receive a deep clean between guests.

Royal Caribbean’s Enhanced Cleaning Protocol uses electrostatic sprayers to apply hospital-grade disinfectants. These machines coat surfaces evenly, ensuring even hard-to-reach areas are sanitized.

Tip: If you’re sensitive to cleaning chemicals, bring your own wipes or sprays. Most lines allow this, and it can ease anxiety if you’re still adjusting to the new norms.

Mask Policies: What’s Required and When

Mask mandates vary by line, ship, and itinerary. As of 2024, most cruise lines no longer require masks in open areas, but they may still be needed in medical centers, elevators, or during embarkation/disembarkation.

For example:

• Carnival: Masks optional except in medical areas
• Princess Cruises: Recommended in crowded indoor spaces
• MSC Cruises: Required only during outbreaks or in high-risk zones (e.g., ports with high infection rates)

Always check your cruise line’s website 72 hours before departure, as policies can change based on local conditions.

Medical Facilities and Onboard Testing

Every modern cruise ship now has a fully equipped medical center staffed by doctors and nurses. Most can perform rapid antigen and PCR tests, which is crucial for re-entry into certain countries.

During a recent cruise to Alaska, a fellow passenger tested positive. The ship’s medical team isolated them immediately, conducted contact tracing, and arranged for a private tender to return them to port. The process was smooth, and the rest of the cruise continued without disruption.

Pro insight: If you’re traveling internationally, confirm whether the ship offers PCR tests that meet your destination’s requirements. Some lines partner with labs to provide digital results within hours.

Booking a Cruise Now: Tips for First-Timers and Veterans

Whether you’re booking your 10th cruise or your first, the process today is different. Here’s how to navigate it smartly.

Understanding Vaccination and Testing Rules

Most cruise lines require full vaccination (two doses of most vaccines, or one of J&J) for passengers 12 and older. Some, like Virgin Voyages, go further—requiring boosters as well.

Testing is also common. You’ll likely need a negative test 24–72 hours before boarding. Acceptable tests vary:

• Rapid antigen: Accepted by Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian
• PCR: Required by some lines for longer itineraries or high-risk destinations

Tip: Schedule your test early. Many clinics offer same-day results, but delays happen. I once had to reschedule a cruise because my test took 48 hours—lesson learned!

Choosing the Right Itinerary and Ship

Not all ships have resumed full operations. Some are sailing at reduced capacity, while others are still in “warm lay-up” (mothballed but ready to sail). Here’s how to pick wisely:

• Newer ships: Often have better air filtration and more space per guest (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas)
• Smaller ships: May offer a more intimate, less crowded experience (e.g., Seabourn, Silversea)
• Itinerary length: Shorter cruises (3–5 days) are easier to restart and less risky if disruptions occur

Check your cruise line’s Restart Tracker—a page on their website listing which ships are sailing and when. Carnival’s tracker, for instance, shows real-time updates on each vessel’s status.

Travel Insurance: A Must-Have

With the risk of last-minute cancellations, outbreaks, or quarantine requirements, travel insurance is no longer optional. Look for policies that cover:

• Trip interruption due to illness
• Onboard medical care
• Quarantine expenses
• Missed ports due to health regulations

Some lines, like Princess Cruises, now include basic insurance in their base fare, but it’s often limited. I recommend upgrading to a comprehensive plan from a third-party provider like Allianz or Travel Guard.

Shore Excursions and Port Visits: What’s Open and Safe

One of the biggest changes is how you explore ports. Many destinations have new rules, and cruise lines have adapted their excursions to keep you safe.

Port Restrictions and Entry Requirements

Some countries still require proof of vaccination, testing, or even quarantine upon arrival. For example:

• Canada: Requires ArriveCAN app submission and random testing
• Australia: Mandates vaccination and pre-travel declaration
• Caribbean islands: Vary widely—some accept antigen tests, others demand PCR

Cruise lines now provide detailed port guides, often updated weekly. They’ll also handle most paperwork if you book an official shore excursion.

Book Excursions Through the Cruise Line

Independent tours are riskier now. If a local operator cancels due to health rules, you’re on your own. But if you book through the cruise line, they’ll refund or reschedule if the port is skipped.

During a recent trip to Greece, our ship was denied entry to Mykonos due to a sudden case spike. The cruise line immediately offered a replacement excursion in Santorini—and even gave us a $50 onboard credit. That kind of support is priceless.

Private Tours: A Safer Alternative

For extra peace of mind, consider booking a private tour with a vetted operator. Many cruise lines partner with local companies to offer small-group or private experiences. These often include:

• Private transportation
• Dedicated guides
• Fewer people, less exposure

It costs more, but for high-risk travelers or families with young kids, it’s worth it.

The Future of Cruising: Trends and Predictions

As more cruise lines start sailing again, they’re not just returning to normal—they’re redefining it. Here’s what’s coming next.

Health-Centric Design

New ships are being built with health in mind. Think:

• Touchless faucets and doors
• UV-C lighting in air ducts
• Dedicated isolation cabins

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, launching in 2024, features a “health village” with advanced medical facilities and even a hyperbaric chamber.

Flexible Booking Policies

Expect more lines to offer free changes or cancellations. Carnival’s “Book with Confidence” program, for example, allows changes up to 48 hours before sailing. This flexibility is likely here to stay.

Sustainability Meets Safety

Cruise lines are investing in cleaner fuels and waste reduction. Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus ships use LNG (liquefied natural gas), reducing emissions by 25%. This dual focus on safety and sustainability will appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Data Table: Cruise Line Restart Status (2024)

Cruise Line	Ships Sailing	Vaccination Required?	Mask Policy	Testing Required	Restart Date (First Ship)
Royal Caribbean	25+	Yes (12+)	Optional	Rapid test 24h pre-board	June 2021
Carnival	20+	Yes (12+)	Optional (medical areas)	Rapid test 72h pre-board	July 2021
Norwegian	18+	Yes (12+)	Optional	Rapid test 24h pre-board	August 2021
Princess	15+	Yes (12+)	Recommended (crowded areas)	Rapid test 72h pre-board	July 2021
MSC	16+	Yes (12+)	Required if outbreak occurs	PCR or rapid test 48h pre-board	August 2021

Note: Policies subject to change. Always verify with your cruise line before booking.

Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Sail Again?

So, have cruise lines started sailing again? Absolutely. But more importantly—is it safe and worth it? The answer depends on your comfort level, health status, and travel goals. For many, the answer is yes. The industry has made incredible strides in safety, and the experience is still magical.

I recently sailed on a 7-night Alaska cruise with my parents. We wore masks in elevators, used the app for dining, and tested before boarding. But once we were on the ship? It felt like a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. The glaciers, the whales, the laughter at dinner… it was worth every precaution.

To make the most of your return to cruising:

• Stay informed: Check your cruise line’s website regularly
• Be flexible: Delays and changes are still possible
• Embrace the new normal: The extra steps are there to protect you

Cruise lines aren’t just sailing again—they’re sailing smarter. And if you’re ready to trade your living room for a balcony view, the sea is waiting. Just remember: pack your sunscreen, your mask (just in case), and your sense of adventure. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

When did cruise lines start sailing again after the pandemic?

Most major cruise lines resumed operations in mid-to-late 2021, following health protocols and phased reopenings. The exact timeline varied by region, with some lines starting earlier in places like the Mediterranean and Alaska.

What safety measures are cruise lines using now that they’ve started sailing again?

Cruise lines have implemented enhanced sanitation, vaccine requirements, pre-departure testing, and improved air filtration systems. Some also offer flexible booking policies to address ongoing concerns about health and safety.

Are cruise ships fully booked now that they’ve started sailing again?

While demand has rebounded, many ships are operating at reduced capacity to comply with distancing guidelines. However, popular routes and peak seasons are seeing near-full bookings as travelers return to cruising.

Do I need to be vaccinated to board a cruise now that lines have started sailing again?

Most cruise lines require passengers to be fully vaccinated, though some allow unvaccinated guests with a negative test. Policies vary by company and destination, so check your line’s specific requirements before booking.

Can I cancel my cruise if I get COVID-19 symptoms before my trip?

Many cruise lines now offer flexible cancellation policies if you test positive for COVID-19 before departure. Review your booking terms for details on refunds or rescheduling options.

Which destinations are cruise lines sailing to now that they’ve restarted operations?

Popular destinations include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, and Northern Europe, with itineraries gradually expanding to include Asia and Australia. Check your preferred line’s website for the latest routes and schedules.