Are Cruise Lines Requiring Masks?

The Cruise Critics Editorial Team has updated a comprehensive guide to vaccination, testing, and masking requirements for cruise ships and cruise lines worldwide. Effective July 1st, vaccinated passengers do not need to wear masks, while unvaccinated passengers must mask at all times indoors except when dining. Each cruise line has its own policy regarding wearing face masks onboard. Whether you have to mask up onboard depends on the cruise line, ship and port of departure, and your COVID-19 vaccination status. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending them in indoor public spaces.

Most major cruise lines are now requiring guests to wear face masks, regardless of physical distancing measures. Some major cruise lines will require pre-boarding testing and masks to be worn in certain indoor areas, even for vaccinated guests. Masks are optional on MSC cruises, but the line recommends them for unvaccinated passengers. Face coverings might also be required in certain areas.

Carnival Cruise Line will make masks optional for fully vaccinated passengers from March 1, following Carnival’s decision to opt the CDC’s new guidelines. Cruising with Carnival is easy, as vaccines and testing are no longer required for most cruises. However, masks are required on bus transfers, hotels, and excursions.

In summary, the Cruise Critics Editorial Team provides a comprehensive guide to vaccination, testing, and masking requirements for cruise ships and cruise lines worldwide.