RCI-Royal Caribbean International will not extend its stricter face mask rules and will allow them to end.
In mid-December, the company tightened its face mask protocols because of the increase of COVID cases worldwide due to the Omicron variant.
Face masks were required to be worn indoors at all times unless actively eating/drinking. This included vaccinated-only zones.
Beginning February 15, the stricter mask rules go away which means passengers will not have to wear face masks at venues designated for vaccinated travelers only, such as select bars, restaurants, lounges, shows, and Casino Royale.
Masks are NOT required:
- In open-air areas of the cruise ship, unless guests are in a crowded setting.
- In the pool/any activity where they may become wet.
- At venues designated for vaccinated passengers only, such as select bars, restaurants, lounges, shows, and Casino Royale. For cruises departing through February 14, masks must be worn in vaccinated-only venues
- In the stateroom when with the traveling party.
- While visiting RCI's private destinations, unless guests are in a crowded setting.
- By any passenger under the age of 2.
Masks ARE required:
- While indoors in public areas, unless seated and eating/drinking.
- While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.
The change in protocols coincided with COVID cases onboard falling back to pre-Omicron levels.