NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line argued to a federal judge on August 7 that Florida had banned “vaccine passports” to score political points.
NCL said the company should be allowed to require proof of COVID shots from guests when it sails from the state this month.
NCL is scheduled for its first post-pandemic voyage from PortMiami Florida on August 15 and has committed to health authorities that at least 95% of passengers will be vaccinated.
Those plans collided with Florida's ban that was touted by Gov. Ron DeSantis, a leading figure against what he said had been "government overreach in fighting the pandemic."
Florida’s law forbids businesses, government entities, and schools from requiring proof of COVID immunity in return for a service.
NCL could be fined up to USD 5000 for each guest denied boarding because they didn't provide proof of immunity.
The law codified an executive order signed in April 2021 by DeSantis, who is staunchly against COVID restrictions.
NCL is ramping up its return to operation, which the CDC shut down in March 2020 with its “No Sail” order.
On August 7, Norwegian made its first post-COVID cruise from a USA port with an Alaskan voyage from Seattle WA aboard Norwegian Encore.
In order to sail, NCL has attested to the Centers it would confirm guests have been vaccinated.