While cruise lines continue to cancel sailings from affected areas of the world, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has an update:

Actions Taken By The Cruise Industry

• Given the evolving nature of the ongoing COVID-19, CLIA Members have enhanced protocols for ocean-going guests and crew. This includes denying boarding to all persons who have travelled from, visited or transited via airports in China, including Hong Kong and Macau, within 14 days before embarkation, and denying boarding to all persons who, within 14 days before embarkation, have had close contact with, or helped care for, anyone suspected or diagnosed as having Coronavirus, or who is currently subject to health monitoring for possible exposure to Novel Coronavirus. For more information, refer to CLIA’s latest statement and FAQs
• CLIA Cruise Lines conduct passenger screenings—including, in some cases, non-touch temperature readings—where appropriate, for guests and crew who have recently traveled from or through the affected areas consistent with prevailing guidance from global health authorities. Screening protocols allow for informed decisions on a case-by-case basis whether a guest or crewmember will be denied boarding.
• Based on the latest available information about the illness, and in consultation with medical professionals from member lines, CLIA has updated its sample Travel and Health Declaration/Questionnaire to be used in conjunction with the cruise lines’ extensive experience in conducting pre-boarding health screening for guests and crew
• The cruise industry is one of the most well-equipped and experienced when it comes to managing and monitoring health conditions of those on board, with outbreak prevention and response measures in place year-round
• CLIA ocean cruise line member ships must be fitted with onboard medical facilities, with shipboard medical professionals available around the clock, 24/7, to provide initial medical care in the event of illness and help prevent disease transmission
• CLIA and its cruise lines maintain close contact with leading global health authorities, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and others. Additionally, CLIA and its member lines remain in contact with port authorities and destinations around the world to ensure alignment on guidance and procedures.
• In coordination with cruise lines, medical experts and regulators around the world, CLIA and its cruise lines will continue to monitor for new developments related to the COVID-19 closely and will modify these policies as necessary with the utmost consideration for the health and safety of passengers and crew. 

Three Key Health Measures Onboard Ships

1. CLIA members have well-practiced, robust outbreak prevention and response plans, including procedures to provide care for and isolate passengers or crew, as needed, to provide for the safety and health of all onboard
2. Cruise ships frequently clean and sanitize facilities onboard. AlcohoI-based hand sanitizers are freely available around the ship
3. Cabins are thoroughly cleaned every day, while kitchens, restaurants and other common areas are cleaned multiple times per day. After every cruise, crew members clean the ship from top to bottom to prepare for the next voyage.

What Steps Can Travelers Take To Protect Themselves From COVID-19?

Leading health authorities are urging the same personal best practices that are standard for a typical flu season, such as the following:

• Avoid close contact with people who show signs of illness, including coughing or sneezing
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available

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