Royal Caribbean given green light for US test cruise

Royal Caribbean International has become the first cruise line to receive approval from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to operate a test sailing in the US.

Michael Bayley, chief executive of Royal Caribbean International, shared the approval letter for the “simulated voyage” from CDC on Facebook.

He wrote: “After 15 months and so much work by so many during very challenging times. To all our colleagues, loyal guests and supporters all over the world I am proud and pleased to share some bright and wonderful news! Boom! Onwards and upwards team!”

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According to the letter, the cruise will take place between June 20-22 on Freedom of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean tweeted: “After 15 months of hard work and collaboration, @RoyalCaribbean
has received CDC approval for simulated cruises on #FreedomoftheSeas in June. This is the latest promising step to return to sailing in the U.S. We look forward to seeing our crew and loyal guests this summer.”

USA Today reported that all volunteers for test cruises must be 18 years of age or older. Guests aren’t required to be vaccinated against Covid-19.