p&o cruises covid questions

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P&O Cruises Covid restrictions: What rules are onboard? What you can & can't do

Author: Harriet Mallinson

Published on: 05 January 2022

Updated on: 11 March 2022

P&O Cruises are back in full flow now but life onboard cruise ships is still very different to before Covid struck. What restrictions are in place on a P&O cruise?

P&O Cruises regularly updates its travel advice for holidaymakers to ensure all guests are fully prepared for life onboard the popular cruise lines' vessels.

Passengers now more than ever need to make sure they are ready for cruising, whether it's getting vaccinated or buying extra face masks.

P&O cruise holidays have strict requirements and it's vital travellers know what to expect so they are happy with their experience onboard and the trip goes smoothly.

This is everything you need to know about all the cruise rules and restrictions on P&O Cruises right now.

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Adults over 18 travelling up to and including 30 April 2022 must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to their holiday.

The line details: "Fully vaccinated can be either two doses of the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines or the single-dose Janssen COVID-19 vaccine (approved by MHRA or WHO EUL)."

- READ MORE: Complete guide to cruise lines' vaccine policies -

Children aged 17 and under travelling to the Caribbean must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to the cruise while kids aged five to 17 sailing to all countries excluding the Caribbean and Mediterranean have the option to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to the holiday or provide a negative PCR result prior to sailing.

Little ones aged four and under travelling to all countries excluding the Caribbean, and children between five and eleven sailing to the Mediterranean, are able to travel providing parents/guardians meet the vaccine requirements

Passengers are required to show proof of vaccination status at the terminal before boarding, which will also be checked against their photo ID. This can be either in digital or printed format.

Do you need a Covid test for a P&O cruise?

All guests will require a negative COVID-19 test at the cruise terminal - provided free of charge.

P&O stipulates: "If you’re travelling with children aged between five and 17 years old who aren’t vaccinated, they will need to take a PCR test within 120 hours prior to travelling to the terminal (again, this will be complimentary).

"Please register with our service provider, Prenetics, and order a PCR pre-cruise testing kit for every unvaccinated guest aged between five and 17 years on your booking. Registration opens five weeks before sailing and closes six days before your embarkation date."

As for those flying to the Caribbean, guests setting sail in Southampton, "will complete a complimentary antigen test at the terminal and must pay for a PCR test on board within three days prior to arrival in Barbados."

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Do you need travel insurance for a P&O holiday?

All UK guests must have comprehensive cruise-specific travel insurance when they sail with P&O.

Insurance must include medical cover of £2million minimum and cover for emergency evacuations and medical expenses related to COVID-19.

You must also ensure your policy includes cover for repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and full cover for any and all pre-existing medical conditions worldwide, or as a minimum, in the countries you are due to visit.

"You’ll be asked to confirm you have travel insurance at the terminal/airport and you may need to provide proof of your policy," said P&O. Without this you risk being denied boarding.

Do you need to wear a face mask on P&O Cruises?

Guests are required to wear a face mask that covers their nose and mouth (with no exemptions) in specific areas including the terminal, when moving around indoors on board and when seated in the theatre.

P&O says: "You’re free to remove your mask when seated elsewhere around the ship, when out on deck and when exercising. We’d always recommend you regularly clean your masks and choose a good quality, ideally medical grade, standard.

"Please note that visors and face shields aren’t accepted as a substitute for a face mask."

- READ MORE: Complete guide to cruise lines' face mask policies -

What life is like onboard P&O ships

Do you need to social distance on a p&o cruise.

Social distancing "should be practised throughout your holiday," explain P&O Cruises.

You're recommended to "keep a physical distance of at least one metre from guests outside of your travelling party."

The line asks travellers to not be in their cabin at the same time as the stewards cleaning the rooms. P&O also encourage guests to avoid using public toilets where possible (although these will be available).

Is there a buffet on P&O cruise ships?

The buffets and deck grills are available but they may be served by members of staff.

Restaurants and bars are all open but you will just need to pre-book a table in the restaurants or join a virtual queue while staff prepare your table.

- READ MORE: P&O reveals incredible escape room on new ship Arvia -

Can I go on shore excursions alone with P&O Cruises?

Guests can go to shore independently but must adhere to COVID-19 protocols.

P&O recommends purchasing shore excursions prior to travel to ensure you have the option to explore each city.

If for some reason the ship is no longer able to visit a certain port, they will spend another day at another port.

Are there muster drills on P&O cruise ships?

Muster drills are currently being carried out virtually. Passengers are directed to their muster station upon boarding the ship but emergency processes will be available to view via the safety video in cabins rather than in-person.

"The drills will include important health, well-being and safety information as well as the actions you would need to take in the unlikely event of an emergency, including a life jacket demonstration," says P&O.

- READ MORE: Inside P&O's Iona from entertainment to the distillery -

What can't you do on P&O Cruises?

The nursery and night nursery will not be in operation.

What's more, some spa facilities such as the Hydrotherapy pools and sauna may not be available. P&O advises visiting the spa reception for the latest updates.

There are also no professional photographers onboard for the time being.

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Canary Islands

• 7 nights, departs on the 13 Feb 2026
• P&O Cruises, Azura
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Funchal, Madeira, + 3 more
• 9 nights, departs on the 10 Oct 2024
• Valletta, Palma de Mallorca, Gibraltar, + 3 more

Scandinavia And Baltic Sea

• 16 nights, departs on the 18 May 2024
• P&O Cruises, Aurora
• Southampton, Kiel, Helsinki, + 8 more

Mediterranean

• 14 nights, departs on the 04 Aug 2024
• P&O Cruises, Arvia
• Southampton, La Coruña, Valencia, + 5 more

Western Europe

• 7 nights, departs on the 13 Jul 2024
• P&O Cruises, Ventura
• Southampton, Vigo, Lisbon, + 3 more

Do You Need to Be Vaccinated to Cruise? It Depends on the Ship and Destination

While most cruise lines have scrapped covid vaccine and testing requirements, some companies and international cruise ports still have vaccination and testing rules in place..

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If you’re planning on sailing with Viking anytime soon, you’d better track down that COVID-19 vaccine certificate.

Courtesy of Viking

When cruising restarted in spring 2021, after a nearly 15-month pandemic-spurred shutdown imposed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruisers faced a barrage of rules, including strict requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations and precruise COVID-19 testing. Later, the rules started to go by the wayside, and it was hard to keep track of who was requiring what. Not anymore.

Most cruise lines have now dropped or are soon dropping rules for both vaccinations and precruise testing, with at least one notable exception. Viking —on its river, ocean, and expedition ships—still requires everyone on board be fully vaccinated .

Another line that was still requiring COVID vaccinations, small-ship line Windstar Cruises, will be scrapping its vaccine mandate as of June 1, 2023. “We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the HVAC systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”

Are COVID vaccinations and testing still required for cruises?

Most cruise lines have dropped both their vaccine and testing requirements. Those that have lingered into 2023—mostly lines operating smaller ships—have been quietly scaling back their requirements.

The result: While there was a time after cruising restarted that you could be assured that your fellow passengers, at least those age 12 and up, were both fully vaccinated and tested for COVID-19 before getting on the ship, that is not the case anymore.

That said, specific countries have their own requirements, and several countries still require that cruise ship passengers are vaccinated and/or tested before arrival. If you are doing an itinerary outside of the Caribbean or Europe (where most vaccine and testing requirements have been dropped)—including to select countries in Central and South America or to Australia—you still have to read your cruise line’s precruise health and safety information carefully to make sure you comply with the latest requirements.

Contact your cruise line or check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories for the latest.

What to know before you cruise

Vaccine and pretrip testing requirements can be confusing, especially if you are cruising internationally. Cruise lines have their own rules; countries have their own rules.

Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise line’s health and safety protocols. If a precruise test is required by a certain country, you will find that noted. In this case, you may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. (If testing is required, it can typically be either a PCR test or tele-health-monitored antigen test , paid for by the passenger. The cruise line may also require a test at the pier, paid for by the cruise line.)

If being fully vaccinated is required, that means having received the original series of vaccines at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot or shots.

As was the case even before the pandemic, you will be asked at embarkation to fill out a questionnaire inquiring about your current health status and whether you currently have any symptoms of illness.

You are free to pack and wear masks on your cruise. Most cruise lines suggest you do wear masks in crowded indoor situations—but it’s not enforced.

A quick cruise line guide to COVID requirements

Here’s a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally. Be sure to review the latest requirements prior to boarding.

American Queen Voyages

On American Queen Voyages’ river, ocean, Great Lakes, and expedition ships, there are no longer any precruise testing or vaccinations required. Face coverings are optional, though masks may be required of any passengers showing symptoms.

Precruise testing is no longer required for vaccinated guests sailing with Azamara , except in ports where testing is required. No vaccination is necessary for cruises departing from or returning to the United States or Europe. In Australia, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing with all required COVID-19 vaccine doses (including a booster shot). Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated.

Celebrity Cruises

No vaccination or testing is required on the majority of Celebrity Cruises sailings. Destinations with stricter requirements include: the Galápagos, Australia and New Zealand, transatlantic crossings, and select Central and South America itineraries. Unvaccinated guests need to be tested in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

As of April 23, 2023, on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , and as of June 8, 2023, on the Queen Elizabeth , vaccinations and testing will no longer be required by Cunard (until then, testing and vaccination requirements apply).

Disney Cruise Line

For sailings embarking from the United States, which are the bulk of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings, no vaccination or testing is required. Disney recommends all guests be vaccinated before sailing and take a test for COVID-19 two days prior to their cruise. There are additional requirements on repositioning cruises and in Australia, so it is important to check the line’s website before your cruise.

Holland America Line

There are no precruise testing or vaccination requirements on most Holland America Line itineraries. There are requirements on select voyages (you can look up a specific voyage’s requirements on the line’s website).

Lindblad Expeditions

For voyages embarking on or after May 11, 2023, Lindblad Expeditions will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, although the line recommends guests be fully vaccinated (for cruises prior to that time, all passengers age five and up must be vaccinated). Lindblad recommends, but does not require, passengers take a predeparture COVID-19 test within five days of the start of their expedition.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine requirements are purely dependent on the destinations being visited on each Oceania cruise. Passengers are advised to be up to date on the latest regulations for all destinations on their cruise itinerary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Effective April 2023, Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer requires that passengers are vaccinated or tested for COVID prior to embarkation, but it continues to encourage vaccination. “Paul Gauguin Cruises’ officers, staff and crew will remain fully vaccinated,” the line states. Travelers will need to present a health declaration form at embarkation.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccines and precruise testing are generally not required to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises . There are some requirements in place based on local health regulations in a specific country a ship is visiting. Regent notifies guests approximately 30 days prior to sailing of any country-specific protocols.

Royal Caribbean

No vaccine or precruise testing is required on the majority of Royal Caribbean itineraries, with a few exceptions: Cruises from Australia, transpacific and transatlantic sailings, and cruises from Hawai‘i to Vancouver.

No vaccine or testing required except on certain Seabourn itineraries where a country may have specific requirements.

No vaccination is required for Silversea passengers except as designated by the destination. Precruise testing is not required except when specified by a destination.

Viking Cruises

All passengers and crew are required to be vaccinated on Viking’s river, ocean, and expedition ships—without exception. Viking strongly recommends passengers receive a booster dose before departing. Viking recommends but does not require a predeparture COVID-19 test (except if required by a destination).

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has no precruise testing or vaccination requirements. Masks may be required at select times.

Windstar Cruises

Beginning June 1, 2023, Windstar will no longer require guests to be vaccinated. Crew will continue to be vaccinated. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending guests wear masks in indoor public spaces. All guests fill out a health questionnaire on embarkation. A precruise COVID-19 test is not required unless you show symptoms.

This article was originally published in May 2022; it was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, with current information.

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Every Cruise Line's Requirements for COVID Vaccines, Testing

A guide to every major cruise line's health requirements for safe sailing.

Cruise lines have shifted their requirements for passengers, making cruising accessible to practically everyone. Many popular cruise lines have eliminated the vaccine and pre-embarkation test as the industry is beginning to shift away from mandatory vaccines and testing.

The changes began shortly after the CDC ended a pandemic-era policy of publicly displaying COVID-19 cases onboard, different cruise lines to the public in July 2022. For those looking to check current COVID-19 trends onboard the CDC urges direct contact with the cruise line, and the organization will continue to monitor and offer guidelines to ships.

Below, we break down each line's list of regulations to sail as well as what travelers need to know to plan.

American Queen Voyages

Where they sail:

American Queen Voyages is known for its Mississippi River cruises as well as sailings down other U.S. rivers like the Columbia and Snake rivers, using classic paddle wheeler ships for a throwback, romantic vibe.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew must be fully vaccinated (14 days after their final shot).

What other safety measures are in place: Luggage is then disinfected before being brought onto the ship and staterooms cleaned with electrostatic fogging.

Find out more : American Queen Voyages

Avalon Waterways

Where they sail: These small-ship river cruises sail throughout Europe, Asia, South America, and down the Nile River in Egypt.

Who needs the vaccine: All international travelers from the U.S. must be fully vaccinated before boarding. Beginning March 2023 the vaccine is no longer required (but strongly encouraged).

What other safety measures are in place: All guests will undergo a health screening upon arrival and luggage will be disinfected. Avalon will provide COVID-19 testing for travelers who need to show proof of a negative test to return home at no extra cost. Depending on the location of the cruise a pre-departure COVID-19 test may or may not be required.

Find out more: Avalon Waterways

Where they sail : Azamara sails mid-size ships all over the world, to all seven continents.

Who needs the vaccine : All guests and crew 12 and older will be required to be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before boarding a ship. Beginning Dec. 1, 2022, the company plans to drop the vaccine requirement for departures from the U.S. and Europe.

What other safety measures are in place : Depending on the port of embarkation guests may or may not to pre-test to travel. For a full list of ports and whether they require a test guests can check online .

Azamara's ships have been upgraded with new HVAC filtration systems, and EPA-certified disinfectants are used to clean the ship.

Find out more : Azamara

Carnival Cruises

Where they sail: Carnival sails large ships around the world, including popular trips to the Caribbean. The company sailed its maiden voyage on the Mardi Gras out of Florida in July.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are encouraged to be vaccinated but unvaccinated travelers, or vaccinated guests without proof of vaccination, will have to present the negative results of a PCR or antigen test taken no earlier than 3 days before sailing.

What other safety measures are in place: For cruises five days or less, there will no longer be pre-cruise testing for vaccinated passengers unless a specific port requires it. Itineraries including Bahamas, Bermuda, or Grand Cayman will still be required to test. All guests will also be required to fill out a health screening 72 hours before embarkation and undergo health screenings prior to boarding. Unvaccinated travelers on a cruise to Bermuda will be required to purchase travel insurance (children under 12 are exempt as long as they are traveling with vaccinated parents).

Both vaccinated and unvaccinated guests who have recovered from COVID-19 within three months of their sailing date, do not need the required pre-cruise COVID test before embarkation, only if they are at least 10 days past their COVID-19 infection, have no symptoms and present documentation of recovery from COVID-19 from their healthcare provider.

Find out more: Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Where they sail: Celebrity Cruises sails all over the world.

Who needs the vaccine: The vaccine is no longer required to sail on cruises from the U.S. and Europe. A vaccine is required for sailings visiting Canada.

What other safety measures are in place: A pre-embarkation test is no longer required for vaccinated guests on sailings nine days or less. Unvaccinated passengers will still be required to test three days prior to sailing. Self-tests are acceptable from European and U.S. ports that don't stop in Bermuda or Canada.

Find out more : Celebrity Cruises

Where they sail: Cunard, which sails all over the world, is known for its transatlantic journeys aboard the Queen Mary 2.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 18 and older must be fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated passengers under 18 will be required to undergo a PCR test within 72 hours of their departure.

What other safety measures are in place: Cunard has "enhanced" their onboard ventilation systems and implemented mandatory mask-wearing policies indoors. All guests aged 4 and older are required to have a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. Crew will be tested regularly while on board. Guests who have certain pre-existing medical conditions, including those who are on supplementary oxygen, will not be allowed to board.

Find out more: Cunard

Disney Cruise Line

Where they sail: Disney sails family-friendly journeys including to the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccination is no longer required by highly suggested.

What other safety measures are in place: Unvaccinated guests must provide results of a COVID-19 test taken 1 to 2 days before sail date, at home tests are not accepted. The Cruise line also has a full list of enhanced cleaning protocols.

Find out more: Disney Cruise Line

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Where they sail: Grand Circle Cruise Line sails small ships and river cruises all over the world, including an extensive list of European itineraries. The company plans to start sailing again in August, including to Greece, Turkey, and Italy.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew are required to be fully vaccinated with the booster shot.

What other safety measures are in place: All ships have been equipped with High Efficiency Particular Air (HEPA) filters and buffets have been eliminated. The cruise line states some itineraries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to travel , and that instructors will be sent out 30 days prior to travel.

Find out mor e: Grand Circle Cruise Line

Holland America

Where they sail: Holland America sails large ships all over the world, including to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Europe, and more.

Who needs the vaccine: Unvaccinated guests are welcome but will be required to self-test three days before cruising.

What other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated passengers traveling on ships for less than 16 days excluding itineraries with the Panama Canal, trans-ocean, and other selected itineraries will no longer be required to test.

Find out more: Holland America

Lindblad Expeditions

Where they sail: Lindblad Expeditions is known for its adventurous trips to hard-to-reach destinations like Antarctica and the Russian Far East, partnering with National Geographic to add to the experience.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 12 and older need to be vaccinated before boarding. Boosters are recommended but not required.

What other safety measures are in place: Pre-departure testing will not be required unless for a specific destination.

Find out more : Lindblad Expeditions

Margaritaville at Sea

Where they sail: Margaritaville at Sea offers 3-day cruises to Grand Bahama Island departing from the port of Palm Beach. The cruise line also offers the opportunity to take the ship one way to the Bahamas to allow guests to stay at the Margaritaville resort, and then take the ship back to the Bahamas at a later date.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome regardless of vaccination status, according to the cruise line.

What other safety measures are in place: All crew members must be vaccinated for COVID-19 and the cruise line states there are vaccination requirements on board (but does not specify).

Find out more: Margaritaville at Sea

MSC Cruises

Where they sail: MSC Cruises sails large ocean cruises around the world, including throughout Europe, South America, the Persian Gulf, and the Caribbean. In August, the company started sailing to the Bahamas with a stop at its private island, Ocean Cay.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccinations are recommended but no longer required.

What other safety measures are in place: Fully-vaccinated passengers are no longer required to show proof of a negative test unless it is required of the destination. Unvaccinated children must show proof of a negative PCR test.

Find out more: MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Where they sail: Norwegian sails big ocean cruises all around the world, including popular itineraries all throughout the Caribbean and Greece.

Who needs the vaccine: All passengers may sail regardless of vaccination status.

What other safety measures are in place: Testing is no longer required for any passenger regardless of vaccination status with the exception of local government mandates.

Find out more : Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Where they sail: Oceania Cruises sails all over the world, including offering several World Cruise itineraries.

Who needs the vaccine: All passengers regardless of vaccination status are allowed to sail.

What other safety measures are in place: Only unvaccinated guests will be required to show proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken 72 hours prior to boarding. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and younger are exempt.

Find out more : Oceania Cruises

P&O Cruises

Where they sail: The UK-based cruise line sails around Europe, including to the Canary Islands, as well as to the Caribbean from Southampton in the UK.

Who needs the vaccine: Although P&O Cruises' policy states that passengers over the age of 15 are required to be vaccinated, the latest update on its website says guests will be contacted directly in regards to vaccination protocol.

What other safety measures are in place: All guests are required to undergo a COVID-19 test at the terminal. Masks will be required on board indoors, and all shore excursions will be with vetted operators.

Find out more : P&O Cruises

Princess Cruises

Where they sail: The global cruise line sails large ocean ships all around the world, from Australia to Alaska.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome on board, but unvaccinated passengers will be required to test and may need an additional medical exemption at some ports.

Find out more : Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Where they sail: Regent Seven Seas offers all-inclusive luxury cruises around the globe, which include perks like free airfare, free excursions, and complimentary unlimited drinks on board.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are now welcome. Unvaccinated passengers will be required to test 3-days before embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Pre-departure testing may not be necessary depending on the port. Currently cruises leaving from Bermuda, Canada, and Greece will require a test.

Find out more : Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Where they sail: Royal Caribbean sails large ocean ships all over the world, including many popular itineraries throughout the Caribbean and Asia.

Who needs the vaccine: Everyone is welcome regardless of vaccination status, passengers traveling to Bermuda or Canada are required to be vaccinated.

W hat other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated travelers will no longer need a negative test on sailings shorter than 10 nights. Unvaccinated travelers aged 5 and older will need to take a test within 3 days of boarding. Self-administered tests are accepted.

Find out more : Royal Caribbean International

Where they sail: The British cruise line, exclusively for guests 50 and older, sails both ocean and river cruises around the globe.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests must be fully vaccinated, including a booster shot at least 14 days before boarding a ship. Saga was the first major cruise line to implement this vaccination policy.

What other safety measures are in place: Ocean Cruise guests will be required to get tested for COVID-19 in the terminal. Masks are required on bus transfers, in hotels, and on excursions.

Find out more : Saga

Where they sail: Seabourn's mid-size luxury cruises head all around the world, from Alaska to the Caribbean.

Who needs the vaccine: Vaccinations are not required on most cruise itineraries, unvaccinated guests will be required to present a negative test taken within three days of embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Masks are recommended onboard in most indoor venues and the casinos are frequently sanitized.

Find out more : Seabourn

Where they sail: Silversea brings guests all around the world in luxury and style , including to the Galapagos and Antarctica .

Who needs the vaccine: All guests are welcome, however, unvaccinated guests may not be welcome on all sailings depending on local regulations.

What other safety measures are in place: Vaccinated guests do not need a pre-departure test unless local regulations such as cruises leaving from Australia, Bermuda, Canada, or Greece require it. Unvaccinated travelers will need a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of embarkation.

Find out more : Silversea

UnCruise Adventures

Where they sail: This small-ship company is known for its Alaska journeys as well as adventures in places like the Galapagos and island hopping in Hawaii.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests 12 and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding. At least one booster is required to sail.

What other safety measures are in place: Guests are not required, but requested to test before departing from home (this policy is subject to change as COVID-19 trends change,) as the company states passengers should test to "be a good citizen". Each ship can perform rapid molecular tests on board. The cruise states they will not visit any destinations where vaccine rates are low.

Masks are required in public spaces, according to the company "bandana" and "buff" face masks will not be accepted.

Find out more : UnCruise Adventures

Victory Cruise Lines

Where they sail: Victory Cruise Lines is known for its Great Lakes cruises, providing all-inclusive sailings to see breathtaking sights from Niagara Falls to the iconic architecture of Chicago from Lake Michigan. Beyond the U.S., Victory Cruise Lines sails to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests and crew will be required to be vaccinated before boarding, and will be required to show physical proof prior to boarding.

What other safety measures are in place: Testing is no longer required on any river cruise.

Luggage is then disinfected before being brought onto the ship and staterooms cleaned with electrostatic fogging. Masks will be required during the embarkation process and while riding a shore excursion bus, but will not be required on board.

Find out more : Victory Cruise Lines

Viking Cruises

Where they sail: Viking sails ocean and river cruises all over the world, including throughout Europe. This summer, Viking will sail several voyages, including around England for UK residents, to Bermuda, and to Iceland in June.

Who needs the vaccine: All guests must be fully vaccinated to board a ship. Guests who are eligible must have a booster.

What other safety measures are in place: In addition to vaccines, all guests may be required to undergo a saliva PCR test at embarkation as well as "frequent" testing throughout the journey. All staterooms are equipped with independent air handling units.

Find out more : Viking Cruises

Virgin Voyages

Where they sail: The brand-new cruise line is launching mini sailings from England for UK residents, and has cruises throughout the Caribbean, and transatlantic options.

Who needs the vaccine: All are welcome regardless of vaccination status, unvaccinated passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of embarkation.

What other safety measures are in place: Virgin Voyages was the first cruise line to eliminate pre-departure testing for vaccinated guests. The cruise line will continue to work with an advisory board to help ensure health and safety on board at all times, including the use of air filtration systems and sanitization of high touch surface areas.

Find out more : Virgin Voyages

Windstar Cruises

Where they sail: Windstar operates small-ship cruises and several sailing vessels all around the globe, including to places like Central America .

Who needs the vaccine: All guests will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding one of Windstar's yachts. Boosters are highly encouraged and are recommended to be administered at least one week prior to travel.

What other safety measures are in place: Guests no longer need a pre-embarkation test unless a specific destination requires it.

Find out more : Windstar Cruises

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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All your Covid cruise questions answered – from positive tests to mask rules

What life is really like on board a cruise ship now restrictions are being rolled back – plus the 10 best 'back to normal' sailings

After being rocked by waves of coronavirus over the last two years, it finally appears that smoother waters are beckoning for the cruise industry. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which represents the industry’s major players, has branded 2022 a “pivotal year”, bullishly forecasting that all 289 ships of its member lines will be sailing by August. Pent-up demand, bolstered by the gradual rolling back of restrictions, is fuelling bookings, and though cruise operators are braced for more omicron-style bumps in the road, there is rising optimism that the worst is over. But that doesn’t mean things have returned to normal quite yet. So what can you expect? Read our answers to the most common cruise questions here...

Will I have to wear a mask onboard?

Many rules, including those governing testing and mask wearing, remain in place, though this could quickly change. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have already returned to their no-mask policies on US sailings, with Virgin Voyages following from next Sunday. Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises have also announced that masks will be optional on their US sailings from March 1.

What about going ashore?

Some Covid rules on ships, and particularly those governing trips ashore, are determined by the regulations of each country that ships call at. 

“It is a constant challenge because the whole point of cruising is that it is a global experience,” said specialist cruise expert Edwina Lonsdale, managing director of the cruise agency Mundy Cruising. “The ships really have to abide by the protocols of the territories they are in as opposed to being a stand-alone island.” 

Some cruise agents have also reported increased interest in smaller ships where passenger numbers are in the hundreds rather than thousands, thus cutting social contact and making it easier to navigate rules restricting trips in ports of call.

Which cruises are my best bet this summer?

So far, many customers are opting to stay closer to home this summer and booking cruises to the Mediterranean and northern Europe, which are additionally served by sailings from UK ports, thus cutting out the need to fly.

What about the Caribbean?

Despite recent instances of cruise ships being turned away from some islands due to the omicron outbreak, the Caribbean is seen as a fairly safe bet. CLIA UK & Ireland director Andy Harmer stresses that only a small proportion of cruises were affected by itinerary changes.

“People can book with confidence and understand that cruise lines are working very closely with the ports they visit,” he says. “It is a situation that is constantly evolving and updating. If itineraries do change, guests can still continue to enjoy their holiday on board and visit other ports.”

And further afield?

Anyone wanting to sail to South America, Asia and Australasia needs to bide their time as these destinations are not expected to return to cruise schedules until next winter at the earliest, especially as several countries including Japan and China are still restricting entry to international visitors.

What about river cruising?

River cruising is attracting more attention at the moment. European riverboats hold an average of 190 guests, which limits social contact. They also provide relatively easy access to embarkation points, with lines such as AmaWaterways, Uniworld and APT promoting Eurostar or self-drive as alternatives to flying.

How quickly will the rules change?

This is one of the biggest challenges facing cruises. Cruise companies are continuing to offer flexible “peace of mind” cancellation policies, with some enabling customers to cancel as late as 48 hours before departure with a full refund or future cruise credit (FCC).

Giles Hawke, UK chief executive of Avalon Waterways, said the company was seeing increased confidence among customers as UK travel rules waned. However, he stressed that forward planning was vital. Guests need to be aware of stricter mask rules on the Continent, the need to show Covid passes to enter many indoor venues, and completing the Passenger Locator Form (PLF), which must be done before returning to the UK.

“If you’ve done the PLF once, you know what’s involved and it’s a matter of having the information available and ready,” he explained. “Some of this comes down to people being properly briefed by their travel agent or cruise line, so preparation is key.

“People should book the holiday they want and get themselves ready to go. By using a reputable company if you cannot travel or the rules change, you will be looked after.”

10 cruises for 2022 that offer peace of mind

Treasures of the nile.

Egypt is this year’s hot ticket thanks to the February 11 release of the new Death on the Nile film, the centenary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. After a decade-long downturn, Nile cruises promise to be back in vogue this year, so beat the crowds to Luxor’s Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, where the mummified body of the boy king remains for now before its transfer to the museum.

Twelve-day Splendors of Egypt and the Nile cruises, including four nights in Cairo and a seven-night round trip from Luxor to Aswan, depart regularly until May, and resume in September. From £3,999pp including flights (0808 168 9110; uniworld.com ) 

Covid rules 

Full vaccination or a PCR test (under-12s exempt). Those flying directly to a coastal area (Marsa Alam, Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh) can take a test on arrival ($30/£22).

Whale-watching in the Azores

Nature takes control on this Fred Olsen voyage to the rugged Atlantic isles of the Azores and Madeira with 4x4 adventures through the volcanic terrain and thrilling encounters with sperm whales on whale-watching trips. Faial island’s picturesque port, Horta, where Borealis docks, has played host to sailors since it was discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century. On São Miguel island, the hot springs of the Furnas Valley and geothermal pools of Terra Nosta Park turn up the temperature, while Madeira charms with its genteel ambience and novel rides down the steep cobbled streets of Funchal in the famous wicker toboggans. 

A 14-night Vistas & Volcanoes of Azores & Madeira round-trip cruise from Liverpool departs June 27. From £1,999pp (0800 084 6449; fredolsencruises.com )

All travellers (even those fully vaccinated) must complete a passenger locator form, and show a negative test (PCR taken no more than 72 hours before travel, or LFT taken no more than 48 hours before travel) before you arrive, or proof of recovery.

Caribbean sunshine

Swap winter chills for a tropical sunshine escape to the Caribbean aboard P&O Cruises’ Azura, which serves up idyllic catamaran sailings to the nearby Grenadine isle of Bequia, historic train rides across the sugar cane fields of St Kitts and shopping sojourns to the colourful markets of the French Caribbean isle of St Martin. Chill out on beaches of the finest sand, explore lush terrain on rainforest hikes and revel in the balmy aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.

A 14-night round-trip cruise from Barbados, calling at the British Virgin Islands, Antigua and St Lucia, departs March 4. From £1,149pp with flights (0344 338 8003; pocruises.com )

Barbados: Fully vaccinated passengers must show a negative RT-PCR test taken no more than three days before arrival, plus an embarkation/disembarkation (ED) card submitted 24 hours prior to travel.    

BVI: Fully vaccinated passengers must show a negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to arrival and proof of travel insurance with minimum approved coverage for Covid-19 related costs. 

Antigua: Over-fives arriving by sea must show a negative RT-PCR test or rapid antigen taken no more than three days before their last point of departure. Over-18s must show proof of having completed a course of an approved vaccine. 

St Lucia: Show a negative PCR result taken no more than five days before boarding, plus proof of being fully vaccinated for at least two weeks.

Highland flings

Discover Scotland’s sea lochs, ruins and castles on a voyage through the Western Isles, culminating in a 60-mile transit along the Caledonian Canal. Hebridean Island Cruises’ new ship, the 40-passenger Lord of the Highlands, makes a cosy base from which to explore the isle of Eigg and the jumble of rainbow-coloured houses in Tobermory on Mull. Sample a wee dram at the Oban whisky distillery before sailing towards Loch Ness and the site of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s infamous defeat at Culloden.

Seven-night Caledonian Canal Explorer sailings, from the Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness, depart May to September. From £3,850pp (01756 704704; hebridean.co.uk )

No restrictions.

Maiden voyage to the Med

Combine a maiden voyage with the ease of sailing from the UK on the inaugural departure of Celebrity Cruises’ debutant, Celebrity Beyond. The 3,260-passenger ship is the latest in the line’s Edge-class series with a “Magic Carpet” platform cantilevered on the side of the ship that serves as a bar and restaurant offering bird’s-eye views. Other highlights include a whimsical rooftop garden and a stylish spa designed by Kelly Hoppen.

A 10-night Western Europe voyage departs Southampton on April 27, with calls at Bilbao, Lisbon, Palma and Barcelona. From 1,712pp, with flights (0344 493 2043; celebritycruises.co.uk )

France: arrivals over 12 must show proof of full vaccination and complete a “sworn statement” saying they are symptom-free. Spain: submit an online health form ( spth.gob.es ) prior to departure. The fully vaccinated and those under 12 can enter the country without testing – but the unvaccinated cannot enter. Portugal: proof of full vaccination or recovery, or a negative antigen test.

Scenic beauty of Norway’s fjords

Soaring granite cliffs laced with waterfalls and surrounded by rings of snow-topped mountains promise to provide an unforgettably majestic backdrop to this Norwegian fjords sailing with new company Ambassador Cruise Line. Take a train ride to remember from Flam where the scenic railway travels through 20 tunnels as it climbs nearly 900 metres, passing through deep ravines and past thundering rivers. In Bergen, inspect the day’s catch at the fish market and browse locally-made artisanal goods in the historic Bryggen waterfront where shops now occupy the former Hanseatic merchant homes and warehouses.

A one-week Summertime Fjordland round-trip sailing from Tilbury to the Norwegian fjords departs August 25. From £649pp (0808 102 8030; ambassadorcruiseline.com )

There are currently no restrictions on entry to Norway.

Danube’s capital attractions

Snap up a special spring offer as part of Avalon Waterways’ new programme of late deals. Try a five-night Danube sailing, where guests can tick off three country capitals (Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna) in three days, along with the rolling hills and pretty riverside hamlets of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Those looking for more energetic ways to explore ashore can grab Nordic walking sticks to hike up to Bratislava’s castle and explore Vienna’s Danube Island by bike. A more sobering, but fascinating, trip takes guests to the former Mauthausen concentration camp near Linz, the last to be liberated by Allied forces in the Second World War.

A five-night Danube Symphony cruise from Budapest to Deggendorf in Germany departs on April 14. From £699pp (0330 058 8243; avalonwaterways.co.uk )

Hungary: there are no entry restrictions for travellers arriving by waterway. Slovakia: arrivals need only show proof of being fully vaccinated. Austria: arrivals must show proof of having had two doses of an approved vaccine. In addition, you must show either a booster (or proof of recovery also counts as a booster) or a negative PCR result  not more than 72 hours old. Unvaccinated travellers without proof of recovery cannot enter.

Truffle-hunting, wine tasting and volcano adventures

Place your bets amid the baroque splendour of Monte Carlo’s high-rolling casino, tap into the glitz and glamour of St Tropez and explore the rugged coastline of Italy’s Neapolitan Riviera, where the streets of Amalfi cling to the jagged slopes. This Oceania cruise aboard its 1,250-passenger ship Riviera brings out the flavours of the Mediterranean with truffle hunting in Provence and wine-tasting in Tuscany spiced up with a taste of adventure in Sicily on a 4x4 expedition across the slopes of Mount Etna.

A 10-night Barcelona to Rome cruise departs August 18 and costs from £2,839pp (0345 505 1920; oceaniacruises.com )

France: arrivals over 12 must show proof of full vaccination and a “sworn statement” saying they are symptom-free. Unvaccinated travellers can only enter for essential purposes . 

Spain: submit an online health form ( spth.gob.es ) prior to departure. The fully vaccinated and those under 12 can enter the country without testing – but the unvaccinated cannot enter. 

Italy: all arrivals must complete a passenger locator form and provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of entry or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours. Unvaccinated travellers must self-isolate for five days.

Island delights

Horse-drawn carriage rides around the traffic-free haven of Sark are one of the highlights of this close-to-home sailing with Noble Caledonia that explores the Channel Islands and Isles of Scilly. Tick off four islands in the Channel archipelago, with a tour of Guernsey that includes a visit to Little Chapel, a miniature version of the famous basilica at Lourdes, and sleepy Alderney with glorious sugar sand beaches, plus the tiny squares and cobbled streets of the main town, St Anne’s. The Scillies serve up more chocolate-box charms, explored on the ship’s Zodiac boats with trips to Tresco’s renowned sub-tropical gardens, the rugged outpost of Bryher, known as untamed Scilly, and peaceful escape St Agnes, the most south-westerly of the isles.

A one-week round-trip voyage from Portsmouth departs on August 22, costing from £3,095pp (020 7752 0000; noble-caledonia.co.uk )

There are currently no restrictions governing travel within the Common Travel Area (which includes the United Kingdom, Guernsey and the Isles of Scilly).

Greece is the word

Spice up your life with zany new kid on the block, Virgin Voyages, on a sailing to the hotspots of the Greek islands. An overnight stay at Mykonos opens up the after-dark attractions of this party isle as well as its daytime quieter side, while Santorini’s dramatic volcanic cliffs swathed with a sea of ivory houses and blue-domed churches provide Insta moments aplenty. Sailors – as Virgin guests are known – can while away lazy hours in balcony hammocks or spar in the on-deck boxing ring and even get inked in the onboard tattoo parlour.

A one-week Greek Island Glow round-trip voyage from Athens departs on September 18, costing from £1,130pp (020 3003 4919; virginvoyages.com )

Arrivals over five must complete a passenger locator form, and show either proof of at least two doses of an approved vaccine, or a certificate of recovery. Unvaccinated travellers must show a certificate of recovery or a negative PCR taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, or negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours prior to arrival.

Flights not included unless otherwise mentioned.

What to expect on board a cruise 

The sooner guests plan to sail, the more likely their cruise will still carry precautionary Covid measures put in place when sailings initially resumed. However, as the situation eases, these are expected to be rolled back. Here’s a general guide to the three main areas of cruise lines’ current health and safety protocols for ocean and river cruises (though finer details may vary between companies).

What testing is required?

Pre- and post-embarkation testing and regular temperature checks remain a vital weapon in the battle to keep Covid at bay. While the UK Government has relaxed testing requirements for overseas travel, cruise lines are maintaining their own for now.

Do I need to be vaccinated?

Everyone must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to embarkation and need to show proof. Some lines have announced they require proof of a booster vaccine too. Child policies vary by age, so check with individual cruise lines.

What happens if I or someone in my household tests positive before the cruise?

If this occurs within 14 days of departure (in some cases within 30 days), you may be barred from travelling.

Do I need to test myself before the cruise?

Depending on the embarkation destination and cruise line, guests may need to organise their own PCR or lateral flow test within 72 or 48 hours of arrival and bring proof of the negative test result.

What procedures are in place at embarkation ports?

There is a pre-embarkation health screening and temperature check, and guests undergo a Covid-19 antigen test – organised and paid for by the cruise line. If they test positive, they undergo another test and medical screening. If the result remains positive, they will not be permitted to board the ship.

Will I get my money back if I can't travel?

Guests who test positive in the lead-up to departure or on the day of embarkation will be refunded. This also applies to the rest of their travelling party.

What happens if I test positive during the cruise?

You will be moved to an isolation cabin either for the entire isolation period, or until the next port of call or the disembarkation port. These cabins may be closer to the medical centre, whose staff will monitor your condition, and complimentary room service and Wi-Fi are provided. Guests will receive a future cruise credit (FCC) for the affected days and a refund for any pre-paid shore excursions or experiences/services. Onboard medical fees for Covid-19-related treatments will be complimentary. If passengers need to be hospitalised, cruise lines will maintain regular contact during this time and coordinate their safe passage home.

What about social distancing?

Ships are still sailing below capacity to make this easier, though guests are expected to stay at least two metres from other guests. Some ships have additional signage and one-way systems to aid social distancing and are blocking off seating areas in restaurants and theatres to ensure passengers are adequately spaced apart. At the moment, masks are required in the ship’s public areas, apart from drinking and dining. Masks do not generally need to be worn outside on deck or when exercising. However, some lines are starting to relax rules governing this.

Can I go ashore independently?

This depends on the rules in each destination, which are constantly changing, and determine whether guests can go ashore independently, on a cruise ship excursion or are unable to disembark at all.

What about insurance?

Make sure you have travel insurance that specifically covers cruises and also includes Covid-19 cover.

Tell us about your cruise holidays

Have you taken a cruise in recent months? What was the experience like on board? Did you find the Covid safety measures reassuring, or did they make your voyage less relaxing? Did you encounter any problems? Which cruise lines have impressed you and why? Please email yoursay@telegraph.co.uk with your tales from the high seas. 

Reader Service: Did you know that some cruise operators require specific cruise travel insurance ? Learn how to get the right travel cover for your trip.

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