CCL-Carnival Cruise Line sent the latest COVID-related protocols to clients booked to sail on its new Mardi Gras ship in July & August 2021.
Carnival President Christine Duffy sent an email to all impacted guests outlining the updated “Have Fun, Be Safe” protocols that are due to be in place when Carnival Mardi Gras debuts this summer.
The line’s health and safety regulations are based on the U.S. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines, which include requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all guests at least 14 days before their sailing date.
Vaccinated passengers will not be required to wear masks on Carnival Mardi Gras, but they have to continue using them inside cruise ship terminals. Inoculated travelers will be able to explore independently in call ports or take Carnival-arranged excursions. Local restrictions have to be followed, such as testing, mask-wearing, physical distancing, health screening.
Carnival also revealed there would be “a small number of unvaccinated guests” on the cruise ship, including “children too young to receive a vaccine and adults who are medically unable to be vaccinated.”
Guests who have not received a full vaccination face additional restrictions, such as increased social distancing measures, mandatory mask policies, testing before and after sailings.
Vacationers can request a full refund before June 21 in case they do not wish to follow the updated protocols.