When Will You Cruise Again ?

[FG111]

Working hard for many years, saving your money and living a good life entitles one to retiring to warmer climates and beginning your cruise addiction. Until the pandemic, my wife and I usually cruised twice a year and we both really miss our cruises.

When do you guys think it will be safe to cruise again and what limitations will the cruise lines place in order to minimize the spread of COVID? I personally believe the CDC will not permit cruises to restart until August 1st and I personally don't plan on cruising until the beginning of the year 2022. Additionally I believe the cruise lines will mandate before boarding proof of vaccine, proof of a recent negative COVID test and the ships will only sail @ 50% capacity in order to minimize passenger contact. And worst of all, I believe the buffet as we have been accustomed to is a finished concept.

[Jima64]

Probably never. Too many problems when off the ship in other countries.

[Stu from NYC]

When we can go maskless on the ship and probably off as well.

[billethkid]

We are booked for November 27, 2021.

By then things "should" be significantly better.....if not then let's hope better understood.

The cruise lines have. for the most part, been fair with passengers booked and delaying or cancelling cruises.

We were asked if we had to have been vaccinated and tested to board....would that affect our decision....

I believe the cruise lines will go for the tightest prevention methods allowable........

We shall see.

[Tmarkwald]

Working hard for many years, saving your money and living a good life entitles one to retiring to warmer climates and beginning your cruise addiction. Until the pandemic, my wife and I usually cruised twice a year and we both really miss our cruises.

When do you guys think it will be safe to cruise again and what limitations will the cruise lines place in order to minimize the spread of COVID? I personally believe the CDC will not permit cruises to restart until August 1st and I personally don't plan on cruising until the beginning of the year 2022. Additionally I believe the cruise lines will mandate before boarding proof of vaccine, proof of a recent negative COVID test and the ships will only sail @ 50% capacity in order to minimize passenger contact. And worst of all, I believe the buffet as we have been accustomed to is a finished concept.

I don't think it is all doom and gloom. Seems like we were on the right path and getting plans in motion until the new CDC Director came onboard..

There are a good number of us who have multiple cruises already booked starting this fall and on into 2021.

I'm just waiting..... :)

[asianthree]

Never did any cruises. Just not a fan of food preparation for a multitude of people. Plus being out to sea, is just not a relaxing vaca for us

[Tmarkwald]

Never did any cruises. Just not a fan of food preparation for a multitude of people. Plus being out to sea, is just not a relaxing vaca for us

We do the made-to-order meals - rarely, if ever, do the buffets.

[FG111]

We do the made-to-order meals - rarely, if ever, do the buffets.

Sorry to hear that as many cruise solely for the Buffets. Seriously, the BUFFETS are nice for a quick bite, but all of the major lines have paid specialty restaurants which serve a fantastic meal in a very nice environment.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

When we can afford a river cruise, I think. They're 3x more expensive than the cruises we usually go on, but the ships are much smaller, fewer passengers, and a much more relaxed experience. I'd definitely look forward to a 5 or 8 day cruise up the Mississippi.

[Garywt]

We are booked for Alaska Sept 2022.

[missypie]

As soon as we can. But, from Florida only.

[Ecuadog]

We are booked on an Azamara cruise come this November, but might cancel for a reason other than Covid.

[Madelaine Amee]

We are booked for This Xmas/New Year. I Will definitely not be getting off the ship though.

[2newyorkers]

We are booked on a Princess Caribbean cruise end of January 2022. Want to try a shorter cruise before we try a longer cruise. If you go to some of the cruise ship sites they are stating that there will still be a buffet but it will be point and they put the food on your plate. They claim that the ventilation has been changed much like the airplanes. Princess has medallion much like a Disney band, so more touchless. Also increase sanitation and all cruise employees must wear mask. They also must increase the amount of medical personnel on the ship. I also think the newer ships will have more hand washing stations. This is the current info, who knows what will be in 10 months. One concern are the elevators. How will that work? They are suggesting you use your elbow. Will you need a COVID vaccine? Will the CDC allow cruising before Nov 1, 2021? I don't think our cruise has a limit on number of passengers.

[Nucky]

We have had our fill of Cruises.

Our answer is NEVER.

[Garywt]

Never did any cruises. Just not a fan of food preparation for a multitude of people. Plus being out to sea, is just not a relaxing vaca for us
That is too bad but you have to do the things you love.

[Garywt]

As soon as we can. But, from Florida only.

At some point we will have cape Canaveral on speed dial.

[gatorbill1]

Probably 2022 if things are ok then. We prefer to cruise in Europe only, no boring Caribbean cruises for us. Also do not frequent buffet, prefer sit down meals served to us. NCL seems to be the best we have found for all above reasons.

[Bilyclub]

Good to see all the cruise haters chiming in. More room for the rest of us onboard.:popcorn:

[Seasonal]

Good to see all the cruise haters chiming in. More room for the rest of us onboard.:popcorn:

I love the haters that have never been on a cruise. Watching an episode of the TV show Love Boat may not make you an expert on cruising.

Can't wait to retire and be close to a cruise port or two. :coolsmiley:

[Stu from NYC]

Interesting that people who have never cruised and do not want to would weigh in on this.

[Tmarkwald]

Sorry to hear that as many cruise solely for the Buffets. Seriously, the BUFFETS are nice for a quick bite, but all of the major lines have paid specialty restaurants which serve a fantastic meal in a very nice environment.

HA HA HA - yeah, I don't even know what to THINK of someone who cruises for the buffet! But the specialty restaurants - oh yeah!

[Tmarkwald]

good to see all the cruise haters chiming in. More room for the rest of us onboard.:popcorn:

yup!

[valuemkt]

Definitely suffering from cruise withdrawal. Have Greek Islands, another Med cruise - this time with daughter and son in law, river cruise that includes Vienna and Budapest on the itinerary.. maybe another Caribbean if Europe is still shut down.

[tophcfa]

Since we have never been on a cruise, we plan on cruising as frequently as we ever have.

[FG111]

Never did any cruises. Just not a fan of food preparation for a multitude of people. Plus being out to sea, is just not a relaxing vaca for us

If I may provide a piece of advise. I have taken over 60 separate cruise throughout my life and I can tell you with 100% certainty that excluding a few rough weather sea days, I have always had a great time cruising and if cruising became 100% safe tonight, I would take a cruise tomorrow morning.

For anyone who has never taken a cruise before, I hope that before you pass, you give cruising a chance. Cruising is one of life's great experiences, especially for the older group.

[Tmarkwald]

If I may provide a piece of advise. I have taken over 60 separate cruise throughout my life and I can tell you with 100% certainty that excluding a few rough weather sea days, I have always had a great time cruising and if cruising became 100% safe tonight, I would take a cruise tomorrow morning.

For anyone who has never taken a cruise before, I hope that before you pass, you give cruising a chance. Cruising is one of life's great experiences, especially for the older group.
Absolutely!

[asianthree]

Just got to love the HATE comments. Our entire working career we took 2-3 months each year to travel Europe. Staying in places sometimes for weeks, and other places for a day or two. No plans, just enjoy local places that most would never find. Small vineyards, sometimes eating with locals in their homes. Our children still travel Europe and plan to return as soon as it is permitted.

Most of the trips were high energy, never have been the type to just sit. But then our work lives were always the same. We did love spending couple months in Hawaii, but some cities were just overcrowded. This will be the 2nd fall we will not be traveling to Europe. Last fall we had a River cruise planned at the end of our travels, but that didn’t happen. It we choose to travel a river will be something we might enjoy. But our big fear was the stagnant travel. The bonus was, Small amount of people, some of the finest wines available, paired with the perfect food courses.

[Stu from NYC]

Just got to love the HATE comments. Our entire working career we took 2-3 months each year to travel Europe. Staying in places sometimes for weeks, and other places for a day or two. No plans, just enjoy local places that most would never find. Small vineyards, sometimes eating with locals in their homes. Our children still travel Europe and plan to return as soon as it is permitted.

Most of the trips were high energy, never have been the type to just sit. But then our work lives were always the same. We did love spending couple months in Hawaii, but some cities were just overcrowded. This will be the 2nd fall we will not be traveling to Europe. Last fall we had a River cruise planned at the end of our travels, but that didn’t happen. It we choose to travel a river will be something we might enjoy. But our big fear was the stagnant travel. The bonus was, Small amount of people, some of the finest wines available, paired with the perfect food courses.

Hate comments? Do not think so.

Great that you have been able to travel so much. Cannot wait for us to be able to once again.

[kathyspear]

As some of you may know, cruise lines have tired of waiting for the CDC to give them the guidance that was promised months ago to get them sailing from U.S. ports again. They are moving ships to international "home ports" and starting up round trip cruises in June. Crystal is doing 7-nights in the Bahamas R/T Nassau and Bimini, stopping at 4 or 5 islands that are normally only visited by private yachts. Royal Caribbean has a ship sailing R/T from Nassau, another sailing R/T from Bermuda, and a third home porting in Cyprus for trips to Greece and Israel. Celebrity is sailing R/T St. Martin. NCL is expected to make a similar announcement any day. Carnival is hopeful that cruising from U.S. ports will be allowed sometime this summer so they are holding off on home ports outside the U.S. for the time being.

So far, all sailings require pax to be fulling vaccinated. (Crew will also be vax'd.) Pre-trip covid tests will likely be required for most if not all cruises this summer but that is because they are required by the countries where the ships are docked or where they will visit. The mask issue is up in the air right now. Some folks are worried about not being allowed to go off and explore in ports on their own. They didn't want to be limited to ship excursions only. So far, it looks like that will not be an issue.

The cruise lines have done a lot to ensure that people don't get sick (or get others sick) on board. I'm vaccinated and I am not worried in the least about getting covid on a ship. My only concern -- the only reason I have not yet booked a cruise -- is that I ***REALLY*** don't want to do a covid test. The idea of having a 10" swab stuck up my nose does not appeal to me for some reason. But I really want to get back on a ship. I have a milestone birthday coming up in August and most years I book a 4 or 5 night "birthday cruise" to the Bahamas or Caribbean. (This is in addition to one of our bigger trips every year or 18 months to Europe or someplace.) So I keep thinking about that 10" swab ... We shall see.

kathy

[Fairway Cruises]

Probably 2022 if things are ok then. We prefer to cruise in Europe only, no boring Caribbean cruises for us. Also do not frequent buffet, prefer sit down meals served to us. NCL seems to be the best we have found for all above reasons.

NCL are among the best for food, no doubt.

[Tmarkwald]

As some of you may know, cruise lines have tired of waiting for the CDC to give them the guidance that was promised months ago to get them sailing from U.S. ports again. They are moving ships to international "home ports" and starting up round trip cruises in June. Crystal is doing 7-nights in the Bahamas R/T Nassau and Bimini, stopping at 4 or 5 islands that are normally only visited by private yachts. Royal Caribbean has a ship sailing R/T from Nassau, another sailing R/T from Bermuda, and a third home porting in Cyprus for trips to Greece and Israel. Celebrity is sailing R/T St. Martin. NCL is expected to make a similar announcement any day. Carnival is hopeful that cruising from U.S. ports will be allowed sometime this summer so they are holding off on home ports outside the U.S. for the time being.

So far, all sailings require pax to be fulling vaccinated. (Crew will also be vax'd.) Pre-trip covid tests will likely be required for most if not all cruises this summer but that is because they are required by the countries where the ships are docked or where they will visit. The mask issue is up in the air right now. Some folks are worried about not being allowed to go off and explore in ports on their own. They didn't want to be limited to ship excursions only. So far, it looks like that will not be an issue.

The cruise lines have done a lot to ensure that people don't get sick (or get others sick) on board. I'm vaccinated and I am not worried in the least about getting covid on a ship. My only concern -- the only reason I have not yet booked a cruise -- is that I ***REALLY*** don't want to do a covid test. The idea of having a 10" swab stuck up my nose does not appeal to me for some reason. But I really want to get back on a ship. I have a milestone birthday coming up in August and most years I book a 4 or 5 night "birthday cruise" to the Bahamas or Caribbean. (This is in addition to one of our bigger trips every year or 18 months to Europe or someplace.) So I keep thinking about that 10" swab ... We shall see.

kathy

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity so far have said that only ship-sponsored excursions will be authorized. But, we're still a couple months from the restart anyway.

By the way, they quit doing the brain swab about July or August of last year....

[Fairway Cruises]

Well I can tell you the cruise lines are now getting angry and DeSantis has made direct representatin to the Biden administration. He may even allow Florida to start cruising with their fantastically organized protocols the lines have in place. Some have suggested mask and covid 'passports' etc but nothing is certain. RCCL have been operating for months now in the far east and no covid reports? The cruise lines are startng cruises from some near ports such as bahmas etc as the wait is not just effecting the financial situation but the ships need to be used, they can't just sit in the ocean. Vital conponents need to turn over as they say. getting all the systems back online and ready for passengers is quite the job. The CDC is a private agency and it's authority can be challenged, which i expect will happen soon if the sail order is not lifted. I make my living from Golf Cruises and have been unable to make a single cruise outside of europe. I suspect we will start resuming around July and August with protocols in place. Whetehr that means a combination of test and trace, shots etc we will have to see. The cruise lines will do all they can to not have too many restrictions which can spoil the vacation experience.

[Rwirish]

In 2040

[Tmarkwald]

Well I can tell you the cruise lines are now getting angry and DeSantis has made direct representatin to the Biden administration. He may even allow Florida to start cruising with their fantastically organized protocols the lines have in place. Some have suggested mask and covid 'passports' etc but nothing is certain. RCCL have been operating for months now in the far east and no covid reports? The cruise lines are startng cruises from some near ports such as bahmas etc as the wait is not just effecting the financial situation but the ships need to be used, they can't just sit in the ocean. Vital conponents need to turn over as they say. getting all the systems back online and ready for passengers is quite the job. The CDC is a private agency and it's authority can be challenged, which i expect will happen soon if the sail order is not lifted. I make my living from Golf Cruises and have been unable to make a single cruise outside of europe. I suspect we will start resuming around July and August with protocols in place. Whetehr that means a combination of test and trace, shots etc we will have to see. The cruise lines will do all they can to not have too many restrictions which can spoil the vacation experience.

I agree with you, except - the CDC is a government agency, not private. That's why a new appointed CDC director was installed at the inauguration. And she hates cruise ships, because we were moving towards cruising for March on test cruises, and May on normal sailings...

[jamorela]

Doing a Mediterranean one in May 2022. Can’t wait!

[westernrider75]

I understand your hesitancy, but the test isn’t that bad and only lasts a second, well worth it to cruise again.

[bjkokomo]

Booked for Alaska in July. Was told last week it is a 50-50 chance gat this time. If we do go they will require proof of vaccine and smaller capacity on the ship. I’m positive that I will miss the buffet on deck 11.

[Girlcopper]

Working hard for many years, saving your money and living a good life entitles one to retiring to warmer climates and beginning your cruise addiction. Until the pandemic, my wife and I usually cruised twice a year and we both really miss our cruises.

When do you guys think it will be safe to cruise again and what limitations will the cruise lines place in order to minimize the spread of COVID? I personally believe the CDC will not permit cruises to restart until August 1st and I personally don't plan on cruising until the beginning of the year 2022. Additionally I believe the cruise lines will mandate before boarding proof of vaccine, proof of a recent negative COVID test and the ships will only sail @ 50% capacity in order to minimize passenger contact. And worst of all, I believe the buffet as we have been accustomed to is a finished concept.
Im a big timer cruiser for years. Have been on short ones and 4 week European cruises. Twice I got neurovirus on one of the long cruises and I was never so sick in my entire life. The virus spread like wildfire through the passengers and we returned after the cruise with 32% of the ship sick. I think it will be a long time before I trust cruising. Ive seen first hand how rapidly a virus spreads and it was mostly due to ignorant passengers who refused to follow protocol when the virus started. So, the ship can have a ton of rules in place if a virus occurs but if you have selfish non caring passengers, no rules will matter. They will do what they want.

[davephan]

Cruising has already opened up again, just not in the US yet. If you want to learn a lot more about the cruising that is now occurring, just watch the YouTube video with a round table discussion with Governor DeSantis and the cruise ship executives.

Florida Governor DeSantis Holds Roundtable Conference With Cruise Executives - YouTube (https://youtu.be/tPUSv4c8PdY)

The three largest ports for the cruise ships are located in Florida, but are still shut down. As was mentioned by others, the cruise liners are starting to move to foreign ports. Cruising is actually supposed to be safer now than going to your grocery store.

We started cruising a few years ago with a Carnival two day cruise from Long Beach, California to Baja Mexico. We made it only a two day cruise in case we hated the experience.

We really liked cruises and have done longer cruises in the Caribbean, Europe, and New Zealand. It’s a great way to travel, to minimize the hassles, including hauling you luggage around. You always have a good place to sleep and eat.

We hated the sit down restaurants on the cruise ships. It took 90 minutes to eat. Each time plates were brought to the table, the plates were 80% to 90% empty. Then we would have to wait another 20 minutes for the next round of nearly empty plates of food. The buffets were much better!

Another problem was the WiFi. You have to be willing to bite the bullet, and pay extra for good WiFi. Otherwise, it’s very annoying to be without the Internet on the cruises.

For all future cruises we book, we will always be booking cabin with balconies, just in case there are problems on the cruise.

By luck of choosing a different river cruise ship, we avoided the Viking River ship that ended up hitting a smaller river ship, which killed many people on the smaller river ship, as it sunk in seconds. We also took the same cruise ship in New Zealand, a couple months after the people were killed on a White Island shore expiation, where a volcano erupted.

Cruising is a great way to do traveling, to avoid the hassles of traveling. A lot of older people love cruising because traveling by land is just too much hassle for the seniors.

[Freehiker]

We love cruising and being on the sea, but I will not go back until masks are gone. We wear masks when we are out, but I when I’m on a ship I want to feel relaxed, drink and check out the scenery....doing that with a mask would suck.

[Petersweeney]

The horror of being trapped at the mall with thousands of strangers - never ever

[mikemalloy]

For our 50th a couple of summers ago we did a Baltic cruise with Celebrity that was for us, wonderful. We are currently waiting to hear about a cruise we are booked on in late June from Amsterdam. It's itinerary includes Iceland which as of April 6 will be open to all visitors who have been vaccinated. From what I've read Royal Caribbean has carried over 100,000 passengers on their Asian routes with no Covid cases. Some lines have been traveling from Italian ports and cruises have resumed from Split in Croatia. Frustrated with the CDC Royal is starting cruises from Nassau and Celebrity will be leaving from St. Martin.
I doubt that Amsterdam will be open in the next 75 days so we have plans to book a Thailand/ Vietnam cruise from Singapore in Jan. if our Iceland trip cancels. Don't want to get into the buffet debate, we normally enjoy the main dining room but will eat at the specialty restaurants 2 or 3 times during a cruise.
In closing we're ready to return to the sea. I suspect that the cruise lines will try their hardest to make sure that none of those terrible publicity outbreaks onboard occur again. We want to travel while we're still able to do so.

[G.R.I.T.S.]

Working hard for many years, saving your money and living a good life entitles one to retiring to warmer climates and beginning your cruise addiction. Until the pandemic, my wife and I usually cruised twice a year and we both really miss our cruises.

When do you guys think it will be safe to cruise again and what limitations will the cruise lines place in order to minimize the spread of COVID? I personally believe the CDC will not permit cruises to restart until August 1st and I personally don't plan on cruising until the beginning of the year 2022. Additionally I believe the cruise lines will mandate before boarding proof of vaccine, proof of a recent negative COVID test and the ships will only sail @ 50% capacity in order to minimize passenger contact. And worst of all, I believe the buffet as we have been accustomed to is a finished concept.

Not planning to. The Norovirus outbreaks turned us off years ago.

[giorgio1948]

We're going to wait a year or so and watch what happens...do not want to "test the Covid waters".

[giorgio1948]

I will "second" that for NCL.

[coffeebean]

We love cruising and being on the sea, but I will not go back until masks are gone. We wear masks when we are out, but I when I’m on a ship I want to feel relaxed, drink and check out the scenery....doing that with a mask would suck.

I agree with you about the masking. Hubby and I are avid cruisers and also avid maskers on land. Hubby and I agree we will not set one foot on a cruise ship unless all passengers and crew are vaccinated with no mask mandates anywhere on the ship. I'm so ready to get cruising again!

[Pat2015]

Cruising in the Spring and Fall
of 2022 on two European cruises. I think everyone will be required to show proof of vaccination and that the buffets will continue on but you will be served by staff. Looking forward to getting on a ship again after two canceled cruises from last year.

[coffeebean]

From what I've read Royal Caribbean has carried over 100,000 passengers on their Asian routes with no Covid cases.

Actually, Richard Fein, chairman and CEO of RCCL, announced that there have been only 10 Covid cases in the 100,000 passengers they have carried on their Asia routes. He seemed extremely pleased with that news.

[kimgarwel12@gmail.com]

We've been cruisers since the '90s, oftentimes several times a year. We had 2 cruises cancelled late in 2020 and have one booked for Sept 2021. BUT, it's a 12-night itinerary, and we've been told by the agent that she's pretty sure only 7-night and less itineraries will cruise this year, but she doesn't know when. So, it looks like we'll be cancelled again. If the cruiselines are going to require vaccines and masks, then no, we won't be cruising. I refuse to spend that kind of money for a vacation, only to be stuffed into a mask for 12 days. While I'm fully vaccinated, my husband will not get the vaccine. He's a veteran and refuses to get it (was told by his VA Dr that most vets aren't getting it). Part of the reason we moved to FL was to make cruising easier and less expensive, so flying to a foreign country to cruise isn't an option either. As my husband keeps saying, "Our cruising days are over." Sad to be sure, but our government has allowed Covid to destroy everything. It's all about control.

[Fastskiguy]

We hated the sit down restaurants on the cruise ships. It took 90 minutes to eat. Each time plates were brought to the table, the plates were 80% to 90% empty. Then we would have to wait another 20 minutes for the next round of nearly empty plates of food. The buffets were much better!

LOL, that's funny, we never eat at the buffets and always go for the long leisurely meal 3X per day. I guess that's why there is a choice :)

As far as when....heck, I'm ready to go right now and am more than willing to put up with rules and protocols. Kinda like muster station drills, it's really no problem.

Joe

[rustyp]

Time apparently heals all wounds. How fast we forgot people trapped on floating petri dishes with no or rotting food and overflowing toilets. Not to mention overwhelming majority of these ships are registered in third world countries. Not exactly like finding the nearest US embassy if needed. I liked cruising but I'm still going to need much more time before the wound heals.
Video - WARNING DO NOT WATCH IF YOU LIKE CRUISING
I Hate Cruises. I'd Rather Suck A Hospital Mop. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwuSGt7zs84)

[Tnbrewer]

My wife and I have been on 36 cruises starting in 94
Been on all the major cruise lines but not the hi end ones
You will always get very hi quality food at the specialty diners on every ship.
Budget for it.
It’s worth it. So is a balcony room.
If I had the money I would go on one 3 or 4 times a year.
Lots to do on and off the ship.
It’s even more fun with friends meet people from around the world.

[mrf6969]

Had a Mediterranean cruise planned this fall. Pushed it to 2022 fall. We don't want to cruise with masks or any restrictions. Freedom in the ports to do what you want is half the fun of a cruise. Why go, pay all the money and not be able to do what you want to do?

[UseYourBrain]

When we can go maskless on the ship and probably off as well.

If you have been vaccinated, you should be safe. The bigger problem is having to wear masks all the time.

[Gulfcoast]

We were on a cruise, actually the last cruise that was allowed out (for Carnival at our port anyway), right before the shut down happened. We had a lot of fun and would go back on one again today without hesitation if the only worry was the possibility that we might catch a virus. What I don't want to deal with is excessive precautions, walking around wearing a mask nonstop while on board the ship, having to present a proof of Covid vaccination or the possibility that our cruise ship could be quarantined and not allowed to port for days, weeks, however long because a passenger or passengers come down with symptoms of what is now a pretty common global virus.

It's not the virus that worries me. It's the overreaction by the authorities (government/health) that worries me. If it weren't for that, I'd sail today if I could.

[MrFlorida]

We have been on over 35 cruises over the years, but not optimistic about the future. Norwalk virus and Covid have put the damper on anything in the near future.

[Bilyclub]

I have found the food on cruise ships to be better than 95% of the stuff they serve at restaurants around TV.

[bilcon]

My wife and I have traveled all over the world by land and have also taken 39 cruises. We now prefer cruises because you can pack and unpack once, it is relaxing at sea and the food on the ships we travel on is great. We will continue to travel as soon as we can. Our favorite cruise line for ocean ships is Viking. Their ships are great, only 900 passengers, large rooms, great drinks and good food. I do have to mention that I will not travel RCCL after they would not return my $2000 deposit from a family cruise we had to cancel for last Christmas. We had to cancel because our kids lost their vacation due to Corvid. The cruise line then cancelled the cruise anyway because of Corvid, but would not return my deposit because I cancelled it first. We can't wait for things to open up again.

[Tmarkwald]

My wife and I have traveled all over the world by land and have also taken 39 cruises. We now prefer cruises because you can pack and unpack once, it is relaxing at sea and the food on the ships we travel on is great. We will continue to travel as soon as we can. Our favorite cruise line for ocean ships is Viking. Their ships are great, only 900 passengers, large rooms, great drinks and good food. I do have to mention that I will not travel RCCL after they would not return my $2000 deposit from a family cruise we had to cancel for last Christmas. We had to cancel because our kids lost their vacation due to Corvid. The cruise line then cancelled the cruise anyway because of Corvid, but would not return my deposit because I cancelled it first. We can't wait for things to open up again.

They did not return the deposit because you cancelled a nonrefundable cruise. However, they gave you credit,

You were covered by the 'Cruise With Confidence' so they issued you a cruise credit since you cancelled before they did. That's been in effect since mid year last year.

If for some reason you did not get the email with your cruise credit, please contact them.

[Stu from NYC]

If you have been vaccinated, you should be safe. The bigger problem is having to wear masks all the time.

Not worried about safety on a ship just think that having to wear a mask will make it harder to do the things we love to do during a cruise.

We have one booked for this December but holding off on booking others until we have better info on what cruising will be like in the future.

[airstreamingypsy]

Warmer climates? You live in Florida.

[merrymini]

Not getting the vaccine so probably will not be ever to cruise in the near future. Cruising is okay but it does not give you enough time on shore to do things. Personally, I do not understand this fascination with being on a ship.

[alemorkam]

As soon as possible.

[Topspinmo]

Working hard for many years, saving your money and living a good life entitles one to retiring to warmer climates and beginning your cruise addiction. Until the pandemic, my wife and I usually cruised twice a year and we both really miss our cruises.

When do you guys think it will be safe to cruise again and what limitations will the cruise lines place in order to minimize the spread of COVID? I personally believe the CDC will not permit cruises to restart until August 1st and I personally don't plan on cruising until the beginning of the year 2022. Additionally I believe the cruise lines will mandate before boarding proof of vaccine, proof of a recent negative COVID test and the ships will only sail @ 50% capacity in order to minimize passenger contact. And worst of all, I believe the buffet as we have been accustomed to is a finished concept.

When —- freezes over. :duck:

[Topspinmo]

Warmer climates? You live in Florida.

Yep, and it’s going to get hotter and muggier.

[Nana4x]

As some of you may know, cruise lines have tired of waiting for the CDC to give them the guidance that was promised months ago to get them sailing from U.S. ports again. They are moving ships to international "home ports" and starting up round trip cruises in June. Crystal is doing 7-nights in the Bahamas R/T Nassau and Bimini, stopping at 4 or 5 islands that are normally only visited by private yachts. Royal Caribbean has a ship sailing R/T from Nassau, another sailing R/T from Bermuda, and a third home porting in Cyprus for trips to Greece and Israel. Celebrity is sailing R/T St. Martin. NCL is expected to make a similar announcement any day. Carnival is hopeful that cruising from U.S. ports will be allowed sometime this summer so they are holding off on home ports outside the U.S. for the time being.

So far, all sailings require pax to be fulling vaccinated. (Crew will also be vax'd.) Pre-trip covid tests will likely be required for most if not all cruises this summer but that is because they are required by the countries where the ships are docked or where they will visit. The mask issue is up in the air right now. Some folks are worried about not being allowed to go off and explore in ports on their own. They didn't want to be limited to ship excursions only. So far, it looks like that will not be an issue.

The cruise lines have done a lot to ensure that people don't get sick (or get others sick) on board. I'm vaccinated and I am not worried in the least about getting covid on a ship. My only concern -- the only reason I have not yet booked a cruise -- is that I ***REALLY*** don't want to do a covid test. The idea of having a 10" swab stuck up my nose does not appeal to me for some reason. But I really want to get back on a ship. I have a milestone birthday coming up in August and most years I book a 4 or 5 night "birthday cruise" to the Bahamas or Caribbean. (This is in addition to one of our bigger trips every year or 18 months to Europe or someplace.) So I keep thinking about that 10" swab ... We shall see.

kathy

That would be something I'd avoid. Are there not better tests that will be accepted that have come out since the awful first ones that looked like they went all the way to your brain (LOL)

We are booked with Oceania ... Caribbean Jan 2022, Europe August 2022 and Caribbean Jan 2023.

Have already made reservations for tours with private guides for Jan 2022. Waiting to see if Oceania (part of NCL) will require that we only tour with them.

O has stated that crew will be vaccinated. That is a huge chore as crew comes from all over the world. No word on passengers yet.

Having them serve me in the buffet is not a problem . Better than when the person in front of you takes a roll with their hands and puts is back.

[Boilerman]

We have a Jan 2022 cruise scheduled that we hope to still go on. We have our vaccinations and will go as long as vaxs are required for all and masks are not required. Wearing a mask all the time would ruin it.

[Hifred]

We were also booked on Azamara in November for Dubai to Singapore. We cancelled as we didn't think things would be cleared up in other countries so we are waiting until spring 2022 to finish our bucket list items. We had the Moderna vaccination but not sure of which variants are covered so we might need a covid booster vaccine by then.

[zendog3]

Never did any cruises. Just not a fan of food preparation for a multitude of people. Plus being out to sea, is just not a relaxing vaca for us

You should reexamine your ideas. There are good reason not to cruise, but the fook is not among them. Google Oceania cruises. Day after day of the best gourmet meals. I have never enjoyed food so much.

[kathyspear]

By the way, they quit doing the swab about July or August of last year....

Can you elaborate please?

k.

[Tmarkwald]

Can you elaborate please?

k.

We started getting tested end of summer and they no longer use the 'brain swab'. They used a nasal swab - 2 of them, one for results in 45 minutes, another to send off to the lab.

I've been about every other month since then. We all had Covid in January last year, and got tested positive for antibodies in April. But we still travel international, and get covid tests every time we go somewhere.

Now, we are vaccinated, but still get tested. LOL. even though it no longer matters.

[Tmarkwald]

I'm sure others saw this as well.

CDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky told MSNBC's Rachel Maddow on Monday that "our data from the CDC today suggests that vaccinated people do not carry the virus" or get sick.

"It's not just in the clinical trials, but it's also in real-world data," she added.

[miharris]

We are booked for June - not sure if that one will go off. Also booked a Med cruise for October, hopefully that one goes. With all of the safety protocol's, a cruise ship will likely be one of the safest places go vacation. Besides, we've had the virus so I'm not that worried.

[Tmarkwald]

We are booked for June - not sure if that one will go off. Also booked a Med cruise for October, hopefully that one goes. With all of the safety protocol's, a cruise ship will likely be one of the safest places go vacation. Besides, we've had the virus so I'm not that worried.

Had the virus and been vaccinated, so we're covered. Our first one is September, with 13 more after than between October and April. As long as the ship is 100% vaccinated, we'll be good!

[traveler9]

Probably never. Years ago we did 5 Celebrity cruises which were wonderful but it was mainly to find places we wanted to stay and visit. None of this crap of off at 8 am back by 5 pm. You never get to minggle with the people who live there and to explore thoroughly. We discovered Sandals and Beaches in 1998 and will never go any other place. Love it!! That is our choice but it is the best for us. Everyone must choose for themselves.

[jimjamuser]

HA HA HA - yeah, I don't even know what to THINK of someone who cruises for the buffet! But the specialty restaurants - oh yeah!
Cruises should theoretically broaden your mind and NOT your waistline.

[Tmarkwald]

Cruises should theoretically broaden your mind and NOT your waistline.

we try and try... HA HA

[lawgolfer]

If you enjoy cruising and don't enjoy getting on and off the ship every day, look into a Transatlantic cruise. Except for the regular N.Y. to Southampton runs by Cunard, these are "repositioning" sailings in the Spring and Fall to move ships to/from Europe and the Caribbean.

There will be a limited number of ports visited. The prices are quite reasonable, and can often be a great bargain. You while away the day at the pool, playing bridge, going to the spa, taking a nap in a deck chair, and , most importantly, forgetting about the troubles of the world. At night, you eat, drink, dance, and go to shows.

All the lines are presently booking these for this Fall. We just signed on with Princess for Southampton-Ft. Lauderdale in November, getting a mini-suite (actually, a large balcony room) for $160/night/person.

[kathyspear]

We started getting tested end of summer and they no longer use the 'brain swab'. They used a nasal swab - 2 of them, one for results in 45 minutes, another to send off to the lab.



How long are the swabs they use now? And do you know if that is what everyone does now or does it depend on where you have the test performed?

Thx.

k.

[oldtimes]

As some of you may know, cruise lines have tired of waiting for the CDC to give them the guidance that was promised months ago to get them sailing from U.S. ports again. They are moving ships to international "home ports" and starting up round trip cruises in June. Crystal is doing 7-nights in the Bahamas R/T Nassau and Bimini, stopping at 4 or 5 islands that are normally only visited by private yachts. Royal Caribbean has a ship sailing R/T from Nassau, another sailing R/T from Bermuda, and a third home porting in Cyprus for trips to Greece and Israel. Celebrity is sailing R/T St. Martin. NCL is expected to make a similar announcement any day. Carnival is hopeful that cruising from U.S. ports will be allowed sometime this summer so they are holding off on home ports outside the U.S. for the time being.

So far, all sailings require pax to be fulling vaccinated. (Crew will also be vax'd.) Pre-trip covid tests will likely be required for most if not all cruises this summer but that is because they are required by the countries where the ships are docked or where they will visit. The mask issue is up in the air right now. Some folks are worried about not being allowed to go off and explore in ports on their own. They didn't want to be limited to ship excursions only. So far, it looks like that will not be an issue.

The cruise lines have done a lot to ensure that people don't get sick (or get others sick) on board. I'm vaccinated and I am not worried in the least about getting covid on a ship. My only concern -- the only reason I have not yet booked a cruise -- is that I ***REALLY*** don't want to do a covid test. The idea of having a 10" swab stuck up my nose does not appeal to me for some reason. But I really want to get back on a ship. I have a milestone birthday coming up in August and most years I book a 4 or 5 night "birthday cruise" to the Bahamas or Caribbean. (This is in addition to one of our bigger trips every year or 18 months to Europe or someplace.) So I keep thinking about that 10" swab ... We shall see.

kathy

It may be 10” but they don’t go that far up and it is uncomfortable for about 5 seconds. I had it done and it was no big deal.

[NewJerseyCop]

My wife and i have booked 3 cruises for this year and so far april's cruise was canceled. The cruiseline gave us the option of a full refund or a 125% credit. September's cruise and christmas to after nye cruise is still on. For that one.....we both got a freee cheers package and $325 each onboard credit. How can we lose??

[Tmarkwald]

If you enjoy cruising and don't enjoy getting on and off the ship every day, look into a Transatlantic cruise. Except for the regular N.Y. to Southampton runs by Cunard, these are "repositioning" sailings in the Spring and Fall to move ships to/from Europe and the Caribbean.

There will be a limited number of ports visited. The prices are quite reasonable, and can often be a great bargain. You while away the day at the pool, playing bridge, going to the spa, taking a nap in a deck chair, and , most importantly, forgetting about the troubles of the world. At night, you eat, drink, dance, and go to shows.

All the lines are presently booking these for this Fall. We just signed on with Princess for Southampton-Ft. Lauderdale in November, getting a mini-suite (actually, a large balcony room) for $160/night/person.

OUCH - $160pp. That's pretty steep. I have been doing 2 TAs a year for about 11 years now and never paid that much for a small suite. I'd shop around!

[HJBeck]

We have a late October cruise in Paris for 14 days then we go right into a Norway cruise in early November. Don’t see either of the cruises as a problem since we both have had 2 shots. Will still wear mask when it appears to be crowded. Am comfortable with buffets as long as there are dedicated servers for the buffet.

[Tmarkwald]

How long are the swabs they use now? And do you know if that is what everyone does now or does it depend on where you have the test performed?

Thx.

k.

Just like a normal swab, slightly into your nose. maybe an inch or so. It IS right at that sneeze point, because I always sneeze, but no more brain swab.
.
I don't know if it is location dependent, but mine have all been done in Washington DC in preparation for international travel.

[Tmarkwald]

Looks like, thanks to the vaccine, the CDC may be changing their stance soon.

Vaccines will prompt CDC to change cruise guidelines 'shortly,' mayor says: Travel Weekly (https://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Miami-Dade-mayor-CDC-guidelines-vaccines?fbclid=IwAR0HZ9VGhgdKL_amGGeMCH6m_H7DzOeZ n4dn0R832Se7uKk1zDBQinYO3ww)

[Uphillputt330]

We were never cruise enthusiasts— did it only when it made sense for the purpose of traveling to where we wanted e.g. Baltic Sea, Nile River, etc.

Even before Covid cruise ships had far too many disease outbreaks and mechanical issues, now with Covid I don’t think we will ever cruise again.

[Bay Kid]

As soon as I find a new girlfriend which could be years.

[Tmarkwald]

We were never cruise enthusiasts— did it only when it made sense for the purpose of traveling to where we wanted e.g. Baltic Sea, Nile River, etc.
.

Maybe it's just me - but I love the ships and what they offer - I've never understood people who think of a cruise ship as a big 'uber' trip.

I use the experience at each port to determine if I'll take a land vacation and go back for more.

As a result, I've spent about a week in Gibraltar, 3 weeks in Spain, 3 weeks in Cairo and Egypt, and a few other places as well. 8 hours in a country doesn't cut it.

[wsachs]

You can tell that many cruise just for the buffet. Look around.

[Tmarkwald]

You can tell that many cruise just for the buffet. Look around.

oh yes! I had one person ask me on the ships if I'd seen any whales..

I said yes, I've been to the pool deck.....

[Lindaws]

AMEN to that.

[Brondrisek]

I have 3 booked starting 3/2022. It’s a leap of faith. And missing travel so much.

[FG111]

As soon as I find a new girlfriend which could be years.

Have you ever seen THE LOVE BOAT on tv ?

Every passenger that boards the ship falls in love
with the mate of their dreams...It's the majic of cruising.

[Stu from NYC]

As soon as I find a new girlfriend which could be years.

Put an add in the paper but would suggest you look for a rich one who can keep you in the style you would like to become accustomed to.

[Tmarkwald]

Have you ever seen THE LOVE BOAT on tv ?

Every passenger that boards the ship falls in love
with the mate of their dreams...It's the majic of cruising.

Yep, very true!

[2newyorkers]

We have made some wonderful friendships thru people we met on a cruise ship.

[Tmarkwald]

We have made some wonderful friendships thru people we met on a cruise ship.

We've made lifelong friendships with people all over the world, especially on our Transatlantic and Transpacific crossings.

As a result, we travel and stay with friends in Australia, the UK, Spain and Germany, and they come here as well.

It is a wonderful broadening of our horizons!!

[richdell]

About 5 years ago while we were both still working up north, my wife and I went on a 3-day cruise (Disney Magic). We had a great time. Now that we're retired in TV, we'd love to try another cruise. It'll probably be next year or 2023. We want to make sure the cruise lines get somewhat closer to normal before we go again.

[Tmarkwald]

Now that the CDC has rescinded ALL rules and quarantines for fully vaccinated people to travel including testing, etc, we are getting more hopeful!

Fully vaccinated people may travel, CDC says (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/fully-vaccinated-people-may-travel-cdc-says/ar-BB1ffdT1?ocid=msedgntp)

[kathyspear]

About 5 years ago while we were both still working up north, my wife and I went on a 3-day cruise (Disney Magic). We had a great time. Now that we're retired in TV, we'd love to try another cruise. It'll probably be next year or 2023. We want to make sure the cruise lines get somewhat closer to normal before we go again.

Disney is a real class act when it comes to cruising. My only issue is how instead of hearing "ding ding ding" when they want your attention the overhead speaker plays a Disney song. By the end of our Disney cruise I never wanted to hear "When You Wish Upon A Star" again!

One of the best things about Florida, IMO, is being so close to multiple cruise ports. We have sailed out of Tampa, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami (all multiple times). Can't wait until we can do it again!

k.

[JSR22]

I have no desire to ever cruise again especially the Caribbean. Went to Alaska twice and it was enjoyable. Disney several times and they were the best. I find the rooms and bathrooms claustrophobic.

[NancyMo]

We are very eager to cruise again and have 2 cruises booked for June. We believe that like many restaurants, hotels and other public places the ships will be more sanitary than ever. We think the buffet will be gone, but we don’t mind being served by someone behind acrylic. The food service will be much more sanitary.

[JoMar]

Now that the CDC has rescinded ALL rules and quarantines for fully vaccinated people to travel including testing, etc, we are getting more hopeful!

Fully vaccinated people may travel, CDC says (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/fully-vaccinated-people-may-travel-cdc-says/ar-BB1ffdT1?ocid=msedgntp)

Cruise lines are taking a different approach. While the CDC may remove the no sail orders the cruise lines still make the rules when you get on the ship. So far a couple of majors announced that masks are required, employees must be vaccinated with specific vaccines or face dismissal, social distancing and reduced capacities are in effect and the only tours you can take are those provided by the ship. Royal Caribbean, International, Crystal and Celebrity have announced that passengers must also be vaccinated. Some "experts" believe the requirement will be extended. We have about 34 cruises under our belts and the restrictions sure don't sound like a fun time to me. We will travel the US for now.

[big guy]

Our last two cruises before covid were awful so we are done! One was a Thanksgiving cruise. I asked when booking the cruise if the traditional Thanksgiving dinner would be served. They assured me that it would. We were the last table in the entire dining room to be served and when we were we were served pork with the chef swearing it was turkey. He said he would swear on his 15 years experience as a chef. I told him that I had 55 years experience and it was not turkey and it was an insult to all of us to say it was turkey. Generally the meal service was like that all week. We all decided "we're done!"

[coffeebean]

Our last two cruises before covid were awful so we are done! One was a Thanksgiving cruise. I asked when booking the cruise if the traditional Thanksgiving dinner would be served. They assured me that it would. We were the last table in the entire dining room to be served and when we were we were served pork with the chef swearing it was turkey. He said he would swear on his 15 years experience as a chef. I told him that I had 55 years experience and it was not turkey and it was an insult to all of us to say it was turkey. Generally the meal service was like that all week. We all decided "we're done!"
Would you consider letting us know which cruise line that was? Thanks.

[DIver0258]

Information for those looking for a return to cruising from U.S. ports. Hopefully this will provide some insight about what is happening.
CDC Issues New Cruise Ship Guidance – gCaptain (https://gcaptain.com/cdc-issues-new-cruise-ship-guidance/?subscriber=true&goal=0_f50174ef03-0823bf2140-139867813&mc_cid=0823bf2140&mc_eid=a1ee15f266)

[Bilyclub]

I have no desire to ever cruise again especially the Caribbean. Went to Alaska twice and it was enjoyable. Disney several times and they were the best. I find the rooms and bathrooms claustrophobic.

The cabins on the ships are bigger than the rooms at the Microtel Inns.

[Bilyclub]

Information for those looking for a return to cruising from U.S. ports. Hopefully this will provide some insight about what is happening.
CDC Issues New Cruise Ship Guidance – gCaptain (https://gcaptain.com/cdc-issues-new-cruise-ship-guidance/?subscriber=true&goal=0_f50174ef03-0823bf2140-139867813&mc_cid=0823bf2140&mc_eid=a1ee15f266)

The CDC only released these after the mounting pressure and threats of a lawsuit that might have gutted their power.

[JSR22]

The cabins on the ships are bigger than the rooms at the Microtel Inns.

I would never stay at a Microtel Inn.

[Stu from NYC]

I have no desire to ever cruise again especially the Caribbean. Went to Alaska twice and it was enjoyable. Disney several times and they were the best. I find the rooms and bathrooms claustrophobic.

We spend very little time in the cabin, just sleep and changing clothes, wife likes it as it stays dark and she can sleep.

Leave bathroom light on as night light.

[MDLNB]

When will I cruise again? Never. The only thing good about riding in a boat is sleeping. If I want to eat a lot, I can eat much cheaper and better. But, cruises are just a petri dish of diseases with a trapped crowd of live material to infect. There is no escaping it.
But, on the other hand, everyone should get out and away from home once in a while so enjoy it.

[Tmarkwald]

Planning to take a cruise this year? You may not be allowed on board without a COVID-19 vaccination (https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/planning-to-take-a-cruise-this-year-you-may-not-be-allowed-on-board-without-a-covid-19-vaccination/ar-BB1eURFB?ocid=msedgntp)

[Two Bills]

Three Degrees - When Will I See You Again (1974) HQ 0815007 - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUSYj5zq144)


89007

[Villageswimmer]

My wife and i have booked 3 cruises for this year and so far april's cruise was canceled. The cruiseline gave us the option of a full refund or a 125% credit. September's cruise and christmas to after nye cruise is still on. For that one.....we both got a freee cheers package and $325 each onboard credit. How can we lose??


Can you please share he name of the cruise line? Did you need to have insurance?

[Tmarkwald]

Can you please share he name of the cruise line? Did you need to have insurance?

Cheers package is only on Carnival

[Stu from NYC]

Cheers package is only on Carnival

Other cruise lines call it by different names

[Bilyclub]

I would never stay at a Microtel Inn.

It was last minute and now I know better. The dirtiness was worse than the size of the room.

[Tmarkwald]

Other cruise lines call it by different names

I know - but the OP specifically said Cheers. As far as I know, that's a Carnival name.

Royal is Deluxe Beverage Package
NCL is Premium Plus Beverage Package

There are others as well.

[Stu from NYC]

It was last minute and now I know better. The dirtiness was worse than the size of the room.

All Microtels will not be filthy. If they were they would not be in business.

[Tmarkwald]

It was last minute and now I know better. The dirtiness was worse than the size of the room.

Sounds like Carnival.....

[Stu from NYC]

Sounds like Carnival.....

We started cruising with Carnival and moved onto Princess when we wanted to see the world.

We have always thought that Carnival did a good job with cleaning our cabin. In any case it depends upon the crew member doing the work can get good or bad on any cruise line.

[Bilyclub]

All Microtels will not be filthy. If they were they would not be in business.

A lot of dumps stay open. They just change the name, management, brand, or owner, but still a dump.

[kathyspear]

Sounds like Carnival.....

Carnival cabins are NOT dirty. Why would you say something like that.

k.

[Tmarkwald]

Carnival cabins are NOT dirty. Why would you say something like that.

k.

OMG, I had the very worse experience ever on a Carnival ship - having said that, that was a one-and-done on Carnival so my experience may very well not be typical...

[JSR22]

OMG, I had the very worse experience ever on a Carnival ship - having said that, that was a one-and-done on Carnival so my experience may very well not be typical...

I know several people one and done with Carnival.

[kathyspear]

OMG, I had the very worse experience ever on a Carnival ship - having said that, that was a one-and-done on Carnival so my experience may very well not be typical...

There are reasons I (or someone else) might choose a cruise line other than Carnival but it has nothing to do with dirty rooms. It's more an issue of demographics, space per person, type of music played, etc.

We were on a Crystal ship a few years ago and a Carnival ship pulled away from the dock and sailed past us, with some horrible loud music blasting away. A few minutes later we set sail listening to Louis Armstrong singing "What a Wonderful World". That about sums up the difference between the two lines.

I often take short cruises with my nieces on Carnival because they don't have much money. If I'm paying for them we are not going on Crystal. :) But I'll take a Carnival cruise over NO cruise any day! I sure do miss cruising right now!

k.

[Stu from NYC]

All cruise lines have their good and bad.

[Madelaine Amee]

If you have been vaccinated, you should be safe. The bigger problem is having to wear masks all the time.

I think it depends on how you cruise. We do not sit around the pools, too much noise and too many sweaty people :shocked:. We always manage to find a quiet spot on the ship to sit and read, love the deck for sitting and watching the water, do not go to eat at the high times on the ship. Spend a lot of time sitting and relaxing on our balcony.

We have both traveled for business and pleasure for many years, have taken wonderful river cruises and land cruises in Europe, but now I am quite happy to cruise in the Caribbean and enjoy being waited on for 10+ days. For me a cruise ship is one big old floating hotel and I love it. We also have no problem wearing a mask when required.

[prettyw102@aol.com]

Miss cruising! Before the pandemic, we would cruise 2x a year, Celebrity and Princess being our favorites. Will hopefully cruise again when things calm down.

[giorgio1948]

Depends on safe destinations for Americans...I'd stay close to our borders...nothing across the pond for now...safety first ~