Europe plots cruise restart

AUTHORITIES in the European Union (EU) have issued formal guidance for restarting cruise ship operations “after lifting restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic”.

The European Union Healthy Gateways document notes public health risks for coronavirus transmission are a “new reality globally,” saying strategies should cover the entire process right from booking through until passengers and crew have returned to their homes.

A gradual approach is suggested, including initial short itineraries with limited port visits.

Designated destinations must have the capacities to provide appropriate public health emergency response, with operators asked to submit a contingency plan for each call.

The ability to test for COVID-19 on board or ashore, a commitment to immediate reporting of any cases and comprehensive crew training are prerequisites, and ships must be able to individually isolate 5% of passengers and crew on board when it is not possible to disembark anyone infected within 24 hours.

However if 24-hour disembarkation is possible, isolation for just 1% of those on board is required.

EU Healthy Gateways will support health authorities in each country to perform “focused inspections on board each cruise ship and ashore,” while other precautions should include physical distancing, alcohol-based hand sanitisers throughout, and limiting kids clubs to outdoor areas only where possible.

Other protocols cover dining, gyms, pools, shore excursions & more - see healthygateways.eu.