Holland America Line is making changes to its “Travel Well” COVID-19 protocols and procedures to simplify the process for guests and meet public health goals. The changes will go into effect for cruises departing on or after September 6, 2022.
Under the new protocols, for most voyages up to 15 nights, vaccinated guests will no longer have to test before cruising and unvaccinated guests can provide results of a negative self-test within three days of sailing. The protocols do not apply to itineraries for countries where local regulations may vary, including Canada, Australia, and Greece.
“Our guests have been excited to return to cruising, and these changes will make it easier for more guests to explore the world in a safe and enjoyable environment,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.
For cruises up to 15 nights, vaccinated guests must provide evidence of their vaccination status prior to embarkation, and pre-cruise testing is no longer required. Unvaccinated guests must provide results of a negative self-test taken within three days of embarkation.
For cruises 16 nights or longer, plus full Panama Canal transit, trans-ocean, and designated remote voyages, all guests will be required to submit a negative COVID-19 test result from a medically supervised test taken within three days of embarkation. Guests must also be vaccinated or request an exemption.
Holland America Line recommends that guests visit the TravelWell section of the company’s website for updates prior to their cruise departure, as well as instructions on how to provide results of a negative test. With these changes, guests can expect a simple and faster check-in process, making it easier for them to get back to exploring the world.
