Royal Caribbean Will No Longer Require Passengers on U.S. Cruises To Be Vaccinated For COVID-19

Previously, Royal Caribbean had announced that passengers would be required to be vaccinated for Covid-19, this decision has been reversed.

In a recent press release, the company said it will recommend that passengers are vaccinated, but they will not require it.

The information that had released previously had stated that all passengers 19 and older had to be vaccinated…

The thing is, there are many people that can not get the vaccination and others that have natural immunity from antibodies.

Guests are strongly recommended to set sail fully vaccinated, if they are eligible. 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.
The company said in a statement

Companies Can Be Fined $5,000 For Asking For Proof Of Vaccination

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis passed a Florida law that will fine companies $5,000 each time they ask for proof of vaccination from customers.

The recently passed law bars government entities, schools, and businesses in Florida from asking anyone to provide proof of a COVID-19 vaccination.

This new law will go take effect beginning on July 1st.

It appears that the change for the cruise line falls in line with this new law.

However, a statement from Lyan Sierra-Caro said the previous statement for required vaccination only applied to test cruises.

Our intention is to comply with all federal, state and local laws
Lyan Sierra-Caro, spokesperson for Royal Caribbean International – said in an email

Celebrity Cruises, also owned by Royal Caribbean, is still requiring the vaccination for all passengers 16 and older on the 7-night Caribbean cruises.

Royal Caribbean CEO Michael Bayley issued a statement thanking Ron DeSantis for his support in restarting the cruise industry.

As of today, 90% of all vacationers booking with Royal Caribbean are either vaccinated or planning to get vaccinated in time for their cruise.
CEO Michael Bayley said in a statement

The company has said that all crew members will be vaccinated, but I am wondering how this applies to those that can not be vaccinated due to medical reasons.