NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced it is working on a comprehensive set of enhanced health and safety protocols in order to address the pandemic.
The company said the new and enhanced protocols will be specially designed to meet or even exceed required global public health standards for passengers boarding NCL ships as well as the safety of its crew members.
Additionally, NCL will introduce a new onboard position of Public Health Officer on each cruise ship, responsible for the oversight of sanitation and outbreak prevention initiatives, along with an increased number of medical staff.
The company presented its latest set of protocols on the NCL website giving a glimpse of the rules crew members have to follow for a safe return to cruising.
- Enhanced Screening Protocols
All crew members will undergo extensive screening before embarkation and constant monitoring throughout the cruise. Touchless temperature checks along with continuous monitoring of passengers and crew throughout the voyage will identify potential health issues. Constant monitoring of crew health features temperature checks multiple times per day and rigid sanitation protocols
NCL is enhancing its Pre-Employment Medical Examination process, which screens for various infectious diseases, to ensure the crew's health and safety. The company is exploring onboard testing capabilities that are due to allow the crew to undergo the latest, most advanced form of Coronavirus testing at any time throughout the employment contract.
- Increased Sanitation Measures
Via partnership with the Vessel Sanitation Programme of CDC, NCL developed a health and safety protocols which crew members will put in action. All cruise ships will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before every sailing in accordance with NCL's protocols. All public areas, staterooms, and suites will be frequently sanitized and disinfected, including the use of Electrostatic Spray Technology. Increased sanitation efforts include personal hygiene, HOCl Fogging in staterooms and public areas, 24/7 prevention timetable (featuring continuous disinfection of high-traffic touchpoints and public areas), Full-Service Buffets.
- Enhanced Medical Resources
Onboard medical centres will be equipped with the latest medical supplies and testing kits. NCL is increasing the number of its medical teams fleetwide. Each vessel has dedicated isolation accommodations. Enhanced health and safety training and continued education are planned for crew members.
- Responsible Distancing
To provide more space for responsible social distancing, passenger capacity onboard will be reduced. Online check-in and staggered embarkation will be implemented for social distancing. The line is also committed to reducing capacity in public areas.