Which Cruise Lines Are Not Requiring Vaccines in 2026

Several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line, are no longer requiring COVID-19 vaccines for most passengers in 2024. This shift reflects updated health guidelines and increased traveler demand for flexibility, though some sailings—especially in international or high-risk regions—may still enforce vaccination rules. Always verify requirements before booking, as policies can vary by itinerary and change with little notice.

Key Takeaways

• Check policies: Always verify vaccine rules before booking—they change frequently.
• Smaller lines: Niche cruise lines often skip mandates for flexibility.
• No vaccines: Some lines accept unvaccinated travelers but require testing.
• Destination matters: Local laws may override cruise line health policies.
• Travel insurance: Protect yourself—coverage varies for unvaccinated travelers.
• Onboard rules: Unvaccinated guests may face mask or activity restrictions.

Introduction: Navigating the New Normal in Cruise Travel

The global cruise industry has undergone a seismic shift since the onset of the pandemic. For over two years, mandatory cruise line vaccine requirements were the norm, with nearly every major operator requiring passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, as of 2024, the landscape is rapidly evolving. With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring the end of the public health emergency of international concern in May 2023, many countries and cruise operators have begun relaxing or eliminating vaccine mandates. This has opened the door for a new wave of travelers—especially those who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or simply prefer to travel without vaccine documentation.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, understanding which cruise lines are not requiring vaccines in 2024 is essential for making informed, stress-free travel decisions. This shift is not just about personal choice; it also reflects broader changes in public health policy, consumer demand, and the cruise industry’s need to remain competitive. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the current policies of major cruise lines, regional variations, health and safety protocols, and practical tips for booking and boarding. Our goal is to provide you with accurate, up-to-date information so you can plan your next cruise with confidence—vaccinated or not.

Major Cruise Lines Without Vaccine Requirements in 2024

As of early 2024, a growing number of cruise lines have officially dropped mandatory vaccination policies for most itineraries. While some still recommend vaccination, they no longer require proof for boarding. This change is particularly evident in North America, Europe, and parts of the Caribbean. Below are the major cruise lines that have either eliminated or significantly relaxed their vaccine mandates.

Carnival Cruise Line: The Pioneer in Policy Relaxation

Carnival Cruise Line made headlines in late 2022 when it became one of the first major operators to drop its vaccine requirement for U.S.-based sailings. As of 2024, Carnival no longer requires passengers to be vaccinated on any of its North American itineraries, including those departing from Miami, Port Canaveral, New Orleans, and Seattle. However, there are important caveats:

• Passengers aged 5 and older must complete a health questionnaire before boarding.
• Unvaccinated guests may be subject to additional pre-boarding testing (PCR or antigen) at their own expense.
• Some international ports (e.g., in Europe or the UK) may still require vaccination for entry, so Carnival advises guests to check destination-specific rules.

For example, a Carnival cruise from Galveston to Cozumel in July 2024 does not require vaccination. However, if the ship stops in Nassau, Bahamas, guests must follow Bahamian entry rules—which currently accept unvaccinated travelers with a negative test within 72 hours.

Royal Caribbean International: Flexible Testing Over Mandates

Royal Caribbean has taken a hybrid approach. While vaccination is strongly encouraged, it is no longer mandatory for most sailings. Instead, the line has shifted focus to pre-cruise testing and health screening:

• Unvaccinated guests must provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of embarkation.
• Children under 5 are exempt from testing.
• Onboard, unvaccinated passengers may face limited access to certain areas (e.g., indoor dining during outbreaks).

Royal Caribbean’s policy applies to all ships in its fleet, including Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, operating in the Caribbean, Alaska, and Mediterranean. A key tip: book early and confirm the policy for your specific sailing, as Royal Caribbean updates guidelines monthly based on regional health data.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Testing-Based Entry

Norwegian Cruise Line has adopted a testing-first model. As of 2024, NCL does not require vaccination but mandates that unvaccinated guests:

• Take a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of embarkation (at their own cost).
• Submit test results via the NCL app or at the terminal.
• Wear masks in crowded indoor areas if local health authorities recommend it.

This policy applies to all NCL ships, including the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy. Notably, NCL has also eliminated the requirement for vaccinated guests to test, making it one of the most lenient major lines. However, unvaccinated guests are encouraged to purchase travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

MSC Cruises: Region-Specific Flexibility

MSC Cruises operates under a region-specific policy. For ships sailing from U.S. ports (e.g., Miami to the Caribbean), vaccination is not required. However, for European itineraries (e.g., Barcelona to the Mediterranean), vaccination may still be needed depending on the country of departure:

• Unvaccinated guests on U.S. sailings must test within 48 hours.
• On European sailings, unvaccinated guests may be denied boarding unless they provide a negative PCR test and proof of travel insurance covering COVID-19.

MSC’s MSC Seashore, which sails from Port Canaveral, allows unvaccinated guests with a negative test. But the same ship, when operating from Genoa, Italy, requires vaccination for all adults. Always check the embarkation port and itinerary details when booking.

Smaller Operators: Boutique and River Cruise Lines

Beyond the big names, several smaller cruise lines have also dropped vaccine mandates:

• American Cruise Lines: No vaccine requirement for U.S. river and coastal cruises. Unvaccinated guests must test within 48 hours.
• American Queen Voyages: Similar policy, with testing required for unvaccinated passengers on Great Lakes and Mississippi River voyages.
• UnCruise Adventures: Small-ship operator in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest; no vaccine mandate but requires a negative test within 72 hours.

These lines often cater to older travelers and families, making their relaxed policies a major selling point. For instance, a 7-day UnCruise adventure in Southeast Alaska allows unvaccinated guests as long as they test negative before boarding—no masks required onboard.

Regional Variations and International Port Rules

One of the most critical aspects of understanding which cruise lines are not requiring vaccines in 2024 is recognizing that policies can vary dramatically based on where you’re sailing from and where you’re going. A cruise line may allow unvaccinated boarding in the U.S., but if it docks in a country with stricter entry rules, you could be denied shore excursions or even disembarkation.

Caribbean and Bahamas: Mostly Open, But Check the Details

Most Caribbean islands and the Bahamas have lifted vaccine requirements for cruise passengers. However, some exceptions exist:

• The Bahamas: As of 2024, unvaccinated travelers may enter with a negative PCR test (within 72 hours) or antigen test (within 48 hours). No quarantine required.
• Jamaica: No vaccine mandate, but unvaccinated guests must test within 72 hours and purchase travel insurance.
• St. Kitts and Nevis: Still requires vaccination or a negative PCR test and 48-hour quarantine for unvaccinated visitors.

Pro tip: Always check the official tourism website of each destination port at least two weeks before sailing. Rules can change quickly, and cruise lines are not always the best source for up-to-date port entry requirements.

Europe: A Patchwork of Policies

European cruise itineraries are more complex. While the European Union no longer requires vaccination for entry, individual countries may still impose restrictions:

• Italy: No vaccine requirement for cruise passengers, but unvaccinated guests may need to test before shore excursions.
• France: Fully open to unvaccinated travelers, but cruise lines may still require testing for onboard safety.
• Greece: No mandate, but unvaccinated passengers must carry a negative test to enter certain public spaces (e.g., museums, restaurants).

For example, a 10-day MSC cruise from Barcelona that stops in Rome, Naples, and Athens allows unvaccinated boarding in Spain, but in Greece, unvaccinated guests must test before visiting the Acropolis or dining in a restaurant. Always carry a digital or printed copy of your test results.

Canada and Alaska: Seasonal and Provincial Rules

Canadian ports like Vancouver and Quebec City have lifted vaccine mandates for cruise passengers. However, during the 2024 Alaska season (May–September), some Canadian provinces may still require testing for unvaccinated travelers:

• British Columbia: No vaccine requirement, but unvaccinated guests must test before boarding ferries or accessing certain attractions.
• Alaska (U.S. state): No mandate, but cruise lines may require testing for unvaccinated guests on itineraries that include Canadian stops.

A Royal Caribbean cruise from Seattle to Juneau, with a stop in Vancouver, allows unvaccinated boarding in Seattle. But if the ship docks in Victoria, BC, unvaccinated guests must test before disembarking. Always confirm with your cruise line’s shore excursion department.

Health and Safety Protocols for Unvaccinated Passengers

While many cruise lines have dropped vaccine mandates, they have not abandoned health and safety. Unvaccinated passengers are often subject to additional protocols designed to minimize risk and comply with local regulations. Understanding these measures can help you prepare for a smoother, safer cruise experience.

Pre-Boarding Testing: The New Standard

The most common requirement for unvaccinated guests is pre-cruise testing. Most major lines require either a PCR test (within 72 hours) or a rapid antigen test (within 24–48 hours). Key points:

• Tests must be taken by a licensed provider or supervised at-home kit (e.g., Abbott BinaxNOW with telehealth).
• Results must be uploaded via the cruise line’s app or presented at the terminal.
• Testing costs are typically not covered by the cruise fare—budget $50–$150 per person.

For example, a family of four taking a Norwegian Cruise Line trip from Miami must budget $200–$600 for pre-boarding tests if unvaccinated. Some lines, like Carnival, offer discounted testing partnerships with providers like Let’s Get Checked.

Onboard Protocols: Masks, Social Distancing, and Isolation

While most ships have lifted mask mandates, unvaccinated guests may still be asked to wear masks in crowded areas during outbreaks. Additional measures include:

• Enhanced cleaning: High-touch surfaces cleaned hourly with hospital-grade disinfectants.
• Ventilation upgrades: HEPA filters and improved air exchange rates.
• Isolation cabins: Designated rooms for guests who test positive onboard.

Royal Caribbean, for instance, has installed MERV-13 air filters across its fleet and offers free rapid testing at the terminal for unvaccinated guests. If a passenger tests positive onboard, they are isolated in a private cabin with medical monitoring, and close contacts are notified via app.

Medical Facilities and Travel Insurance

All major cruise lines have onboard medical centers equipped to handle COVID-19 cases. However, travel insurance is strongly recommended for unvaccinated travelers:

• Look for policies that cover medical evacuation, quarantine expenses, and trip interruption.
• Some insurers (e.g., Allianz, Travel Guard) offer “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) add-ons.
• Unvaccinated travelers may face higher premiums—compare quotes from at least three providers.

A practical example: A 70-year-old unvaccinated passenger booking a 14-day Mediterranean cruise should invest in a policy that covers up to $100,000 in medical costs and includes emergency airlift to a hospital in Spain or Italy.

Booking Tips and Best Practices for Unvaccinated Travelers

Planning a cruise without vaccination requires extra diligence. From choosing the right itinerary to managing documentation, here are essential tips to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Verify Policies Directly with the Cruise Line

Never rely solely on third-party travel sites. Cruise line policies change frequently. Always:

• Visit the official cruise line website and navigate to “Health & Safety” or “Travel Requirements.”
• Check the specific sailing date and itinerary—policies may differ by ship and season.
• Call customer service to confirm details, especially for international cruises.

For example, a Carnival cruise from New Orleans in January 2024 may have different rules than one from Miami in June. A quick call to Carnival’s health desk can clarify testing requirements and port entry rules.

Prepare Documentation in Advance

Unvaccinated guests must carry multiple documents:

• Negative test results (digital and printed).
• Health questionnaire (often completed online pre-cruise).
• Travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage.
• Passport and boarding pass.

Create a dedicated folder (physical and digital) and label it “Cruise Docs.” Use a service like TripIt or Google Drive to organize and share files with travel companions.

Consider Timing and Flexibility

Book cruises during shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) when demand is lower and policies are more stable. Avoid peak holiday periods when health rules may tighten unexpectedly. Also, opt for flexible booking options:

• Choose sailings with no-penalty cancellation within 48 hours of departure.
• Use cruise lines with “future cruise credits” if you need to reschedule.

For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a “Peace of Mind” policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for unvaccinated guests who test positive pre-cruise.

Data Table: Cruise Line Vaccine Policies (2024)

Cruise Line	Vaccine Required?	Pre-Boarding Test for Unvaccinated	Mask Policy	Notes
Carnival Cruise Line	No (U.S. sailings)	PCR (72 hrs) or antigen (48 hrs)	Recommended during outbreaks	Check port entry rules for international stops
Royal Caribbean	No	PCR (72 hrs)	Optional, but encouraged	Unvaccinated guests may have limited access to indoor dining
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	Antigen (24 hrs)	No mandate	No testing for vaccinated guests
MSC Cruises	No (U.S. ports), Yes (some EU ports)	PCR (48 hrs) for unvaccinated	As per local guidelines	Policy varies by embarkation country
American Cruise Lines	No	Antigen (48 hrs)	No mandate	Applies to all U.S. river and coastal cruises

Note: Policies are subject to change. Always confirm with the cruise line before booking.

Conclusion: Freedom, Flexibility, and Responsibility

The cruise industry’s shift away from mandatory vaccination in 2024 marks a significant return to travel freedom. With major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC no longer requiring vaccines on most itineraries, unvaccinated travelers now have more options than ever. However, this freedom comes with responsibility. Pre-boarding testing, regional port rules, and onboard health protocols remain critical components of a safe and enjoyable cruise.

As you plan your next voyage, remember that which cruise lines are not requiring vaccines in 2024 is only part of the equation. The full picture includes understanding destination entry rules, preparing documentation, investing in travel insurance, and staying informed. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can enjoy the open seas—whether you’re vaccinated, unvaccinated, or somewhere in between. The future of cruising is here: flexible, inclusive, and full of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines are not requiring vaccines in 2024?

As of 2024, several cruise lines—including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian—have dropped mandatory vaccine requirements for most sailings. However, policies may vary by destination or cruise duration, so always confirm with the cruise line before booking.

Are there any major cruise lines still requiring COVID vaccines?

Most major cruise lines no longer require COVID-19 vaccines for guests, though some specialized or international itineraries (e.g., to Australia or New Zealand) may still enforce them. Check the cruise line’s health and safety page for the latest updates.

Do I need a vaccine to go on a cruise in 2024?

For most mainstream cruise lines, no—vaccines are no longer mandatory for passengers in 2024. Unvaccinated travelers should still expect possible testing requirements or health screenings, depending on the departure port and itinerary.

Which cruise lines are not requiring vaccines for kids?

Cruise lines like Disney, MSC, and Princess have aligned with broader industry trends, dropping vaccine mandates for children. However, unvaccinated kids might need to provide negative test results or follow additional protocols on board.

Can I cruise without a vaccine if I have a medical exemption?

Yes, most cruise lines now allow unvaccinated travelers, including those with medical exemptions, to sail without vaccines. You may need to submit documentation or undergo pre-travel testing to comply with their health policies.

Are unvaccinated passengers treated differently on cruise ships?

Generally, no—unvaccinated guests have the same access to dining, entertainment, and excursions on most ships. Some cruise lines may require unvaccinated passengers to test onboard or wear masks in crowded areas, but restrictions are minimal in 2024.