With COVID-19 sweeping the world, many wary travellers have baulked at the idea of undertaking overseas adventures in the near future. However, as nations open up for the first time in almost two years, those keen to get away have turned their sights to luxurious cruise ships to experience the more decadent side of life. But what does cruising look like in 2022? Can passengers feel safe onboard? And will you be able to step ashore in gorgeous destinations with confidence?

Want to know more about cruising in the time of COVID? Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you (and your liner) prepare for your next adventure.

Increased Hygiene Protocols While Cruising

Anyone who has been on a cruise before knows that illness can sweep through a ship quickly and without mercy. As such, cruise liners have taken on stringent hygiene protocols designed to remove biological hazards and protect all souls onboard. With daily deep cleaning, temperature checks, and PCR tests for travellers requiring return flights home, cruise ships are working tirelessly to ensure that you have the best experience possible during your stay.

But what if something comes up with you’re onboard? Don’t worry – medical help is available! Companies like Viking Cruises have stringent, state-of-the-art medical stations onboard, as well as portable testing kits to keep passengers and crew healthy, safe, and confident during their cruise.

Vaccination Requirements

While vaccinations for certain illnesses have always been required prior to disembarking in ports, COVID-19 has proven to be easily transmissible and dangerous. The priority of any cruise line is protecting the health and wellbeing of its staff and customers. Expect to find a strict double-vaccination requirement when booking your ticket, and proof of vaccination will be requested both prior to and during embarkment.

Port Visit Caution

As unfortunate as it seems, some traditional port visits may place customers at a higher risk of contracting COVID during a port visit. Therefore, expect consistent, up-to-date messages from your cruise company outlining the precautions and requirements from destinations on your itinerary. If required, ships may skip certain ports, or remain at sea for longer to ensure passenger safety. While this may be frustrating, remember that it is done with your well-being in mind.

That doesn’t mean that you’ll miss out! Choose your cruising experience, from unique expeditions to the Poles, to classic sun-soaked European adventures. No matter your preference, the ship, and her crew, will do everything to make your experience fantastic.

Flexible Booking Arrangements

With so much uncertainty, it is important for guests to feel confident and comfortable whilst booking a cruise. Major companies like Scenic Cruises and Viking Cruises have taken this onboard, and offer travellers flexible booking arrangements to take the stress out of choosing their line.

Sometimes, the unexpected happens. Need to cancel your tour for now, but want to cruise in the future? Check to see if your company offers future travel credit! This holds the value of your cruise for up to 24 months so that you can book again in the future.

Exploring Unique Destinations

One more unexpected side effect of COVID hasn’t been the ships, but the destinations themselves. As more people return to travelling, the demand for off-the-beaten-track cruising experiences has become greater. Smaller crews, passenger manifests, and ships mean less chance of illness, and a greater sense of community onboard. Anyone can take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast, but how many will venture through the icy fjords of Norway? Take a chance to expand your horizons, and venture to corners of the globe that you may never have thought possible. After all, you’ve earned it!

Cruising With Confidence With Viva Travel

Feel ready to take on a cruise in 2022? Let Viva Travel help! We can organise everything, from your flight to COVID travel advice, and make sure that you have the most relaxing journey of your life. Let us take the stress out of your holiday, and contact our experts today!