The U.S. State Department caused a stir on Sunday evening when they said that travel by cruise ship should be avoided, especially by those with underlying health conditions.
At a White House press conference last night, a member of the press asked Dr. Anthony Fauci if Americans who have cruises planned should be concerned about taking their vacation. Fauci is the director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases. His response was:
“If you are a healthy young person, there is no reason if you want to go on a cruise ship, go on a cruise ship.”
He went on to say that he recommended those with underlying health problems, particularly the elderly, that they cancel and not go on a cruise ship at this time.
Vice President Mike Pence added that the warning to not go on a cruise ship at this time was towards those who are older with health problems and was not geared towards younger healthier travelers.
Just about every cruise line has waived cancellation fees and will let you cancel your cruise up until 48-72 hours before sailing. You’ll receive a future cruise credit for the amount that you paid for your cruise fare. Some cruise lines are even giving you spending money on your cruise if you don’t cancel. You can see a list of what each cruise line is offering here.
I will be boarding a cruise ship (Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas) on Friday for a three night cruise to the Bahamas out of Miami.
I will be writing about my experience here on Cruise Fever will detail what it’s like to take a cruise at this time.