Carnival Cruises relaxes mask mandates

Carnival Cruises has announced that it will relax its mask policies in accordance with the CDC’s updated program for cruise ships operating in U.S. waters.

Effective March 1, “masks are recommended on board but not required,” the company said in a press release. “However, masks may be required in certain venues and events. Please pay close attention to onboard signage.”

The company stated that it will continue to meet the standard of vaccinated cruises, with limited exceptions granted for children and guests who provide a doctor’s note stating that they are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Children under the age of five will no longer be required to apply for a vaccine exemption, however, they will be required to follow unvaccinated guest protocols, including strict testing requirements.

Also effective March 1, passengers who are up to date on their vaccines, meaning “a person has received all recommended COVID-19 vaccinations, including any booster dose(s)”, will be able to take a test three days before sailing. Those who have been vaccinated but have not received a booster must be tested within two days of sailing, according to Carnival’s website.

“We have had a very successful restart of guest operations thanks to the support of our guests, the commitment of our shipboard team, and the effective protocols we have put in place,” Carnival’s president, Christine Duffy, said in the release.