As the world reopens, many businesses are questioning to vaccine or not vaccine? However, the cruise line Royal Caribbean International has decided not to require U.S. passengers to get vaccinated.
According to the New York Post, the company said that it would only “strongly” encourage guests to get a COVID-19 shot.
Before the announcement, the cruise line said it would require passengers to get vaccinated.
“Guests are strongly recommended to set sail fully vaccinated if they are eligible,” the company said in a statement on Friday.
“Those who are unvaccinated or unable to verify vaccination will be required to undergo testing and follow other protocols, which will be announced at a later date.”
Royal Caribbean will resume cruises on six of its new ships from U.S. ports this summer, starting with Freedom of the Seas from Miami on July 2.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis did not support the vaccination requirement and went as far as threatening to fine cruise lines $5,000 each time they require a guest to show proof of vaccination.
It remains unclear if this change in the cruise line’s policy is in response to the governor’s threat.
The announcement goes against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation that passengers, crew, and port workers receive the vaccine.
“The progress made as a result of the ongoing collaboration with and support from the state, local, and federal level continues to set the stage for Royal Caribbean to return to sailing this summer as planned,” Royal Caribbean International said in a statement.
“The cruise line will share updates on measures with guests and travel advisors before their departure dates.”
According to the Washington Post, Crew members on the ships will still be fully vaccinated.
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