Royal Caribbean held a roundtable discussion with members of the media earlier today discussing potential health protocols on their cruise ships.
Yesterday, the cruise line said that they have partnered with Norwegian Cruise Line to form an expert panel of leading public health experts for enhanced cruise ship health and safety standards.
On the call, Royal Caribbean talked about a handful of the many potential changes they may add on their ships. It is important to note that the following protocols will depend on the panel’s recommendations and approval from the CDC.
Cruise ship capacity will be reduced so each ship will allow for more space per passenger.
Dining capacity in restaurants may also be reduced to spread out passengers throughout each dining room.
Capacity may also be reduced in venues around the ship including the theater. To allow for everyone on the ship who wants to see a show to see a show, Royal Caribbean is talking about adding in an extra show time for extra seats.
Extra sanitation and cleaning will take place all around the ship. This will include during embarkation at home ports with mandatory temperature checks.
These are just a few of the potential new protocols that could be implemented on Royal Caribbean cruise ships.
Once the panel of experts gives Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line their recommendations, the cruise line said that they will be sharing this information with all cruise lines.
Royal Caribbean continues to work with CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) so they can provide a safe and healthy cruise experience when they are able to resume cruises.
Royal Caribbean has currently canceled most cruises (excluding sailings from China) through September 15, 2020. Sailings to Bermuda have been suspended through the end of October.
