After long-term shutdowns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the cruise industry is setting sail again.
Carnival, one of the largest cruise operators in the world, announced that three of its last US-based cruise ships are ready for business again and set to sail in March.
- Carnival Sensation: Set to sail on March 5, 2022, the Sensation holds 2,100 passengers and makes its first stop in Cozumel.
- Carnival Ecstasy: Ready to cruise on March 7, 2022, the Ecstasy fits 2,040 passengers and makes its first stop in Nassau and Princess Cays, Bahamas.
- Carnival Paradise: Set to launch on March 12, 2022, the Paradise holds 2,100 passengers and stops in the Caribbean.
Also, two of the Australia-based cruise ships are scheduled to resume sailing in May which will make Carnival’s pandemic comeback complete.
Carnival Advancing Covid Restrictions
In the wake of the pandemic, Carnival has instituted new strict protocols. All passengers that board its ships must present proof of vaccination and agree to be tested for Covid-19 before boarding. All ships enforce a mask policy and special cleaning protocols.
Carnival has pioneered the use of in-terminal testing for all guests. It is also the first cruise line that plans to use the airline industry’s VeriFLY program to verify guest vaccination status.
Covid-19 Devastated the Cruise Industry
The cruise industry, estimated at $150 billion annually, was devastated by the pandemic. Enforced isolation, shelter-at-home orders and halts on foreign travel created estimated revenue losses of more than 70% for most cruise companies.
The return of Carnival’s most popular itineraries is good news for cruise enthusiasts who can’t wait to start traveling again. It’s also good news for the many people who depend on the cruise industry to make a living.