Clia cruise lines commit to Covid-19 testing

All Clia-member cruise lines have committed to testing passengers and crew prior to embarkation, in a travel industry first.

The move, which applies specifically to US-based departures, was announced at a joint call of the world’s biggest cruise line executives, including Arnold Donald, the president & CEO of Carnival Corporation; Richard Fain, chairman & CEO of Royal Caribbean Group; Frank Del Rio, president & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings; and Pierfrancesco Vago, the executive chairman of MSC.

Clia hosted the call and the new protocols are still subject to the US government lifting its no-sail order.

Other requirements include mandatory mask wearing by all guests and crew during shore excursions if physical distancing cannot be maintained.

All Clia member cruise lines have also committed to air management and ventilation strategies to increase fresh air on board.

Seatrade quoted Richard Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group, as saying: “We all share these goals and will get there by collaboration, not competition,” during the call.

Vago added that MSC has operated cruises in Europe for five weeks and that it was proving a useful blueprint for enabling cruising worldwide.

“Guests are happy. They see these protocols are working,” he said. “We have demonstrated cruising can take place in a safe way.”