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Setting Sail on Celebrity Beyond

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 19:37:00 +0000

Join us on Celebrity Beyond to experience Modern Luxury at it's finest. We are setting sail on November 9th from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in a Magic Carpet Suite. This Sky Suite gives us access to The Retreat. Be sure to follow us on FB and IG to share our experiences.

All suites at The Retreat come with a dedicated butler who’s just a message away. You get access to an exclusive sundeck and lounge that make you feel like you have the ship to yourself. Your table awaits at Luminae, your private, suites-only restaurant. And, you’ll enjoy more perks and amenities than ever before. The Retreat isn’t just a suite. It’s the most elevated experience at sea, period.

The Retreat. Suite Life. Elevated.

Watch this video for a preview of The Retreat.

Learn More About Beyond

Welcome to a place where you can experience all the things you’ve been missing for so long. Only now, those things are even better than you’ve imagined. This is a place where the possibilities are as endless as the views. where you can disconnect entirely while you reconnect with each other-and the world. This place is Celebrity Beyond℠.

The Third ship in our revolutionary Edge® Series takes our innovative outward-facing design further than ever, creating an even closer connection between you, the sea, and every exciting place on the horizon. Unwind in expanded open-air spaces. Savor fine dining that rivals anything you’d find on land. And discover even more ways to relax and renew.

Celebrity Beyond is sailing with Starlink - the world’s most advanced broadband satellite internet - to bring you high-speed connectivity for a better onboard experience.

Explore Celebrity Beyond Itineraries

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2024 Hurricanes - How They Work

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Hurricane Basics & History

Looking for past or current hurricanes? Click Image or Here

President Obama declared May 5 - May 11 “National Hurricane Preparedness Week." FEMA, along with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is helping to raise awareness of steps that can be taken to help protect citizens, and their communities and property.

What is a Hurricane?

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, which is a generic term for a low pressure system that generally forms in the tropics. The cyclone is accompanied by thunderstorms and, in the Northern Hemisphere, a counterclockwise circulation of winds near the earth's surface. Tropical cyclones are classified as follows:

* Sustained winds
A 1-minute average wind measured at about 33 ft (10 meters) above the surface.
** 1 knot = 1 nautical mile per hour or 1.15 statute miles per hour. Abbreviated as "kt".

Tropical Depression
An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds* of 38 mph (33 kt**) or less

Tropical Storm
An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph (34-63 kt)

Hurricane
An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 kt) or higher

Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a hurricane.

A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area. Be prepared to evacuate. Monitor local radio and television news outlets or listen to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest developments.
A hurricane warning is when a hurricane is expected in your area. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.

Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and damage potential. Category Three and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes, though Categories One and Two are still extremely dangerous and warrant your full attention.The following chart details the categories and the damage that can result from a storm with that strength.

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale for Kids (NASA)

Scale Number (Category)	Sustained Winds	Damage	Storm Surge
1	74-95 mph 64-82 kt 119-153 km/h	Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.	4-5 feet
2	96-110 mph 83-95 kt 154-177 km/h	Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.	6-8 feet
3 (major)	111-129 mph 96-112 kt 178-208 km/h	Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.	9-12 feet
4 (major)	130-156 mph 113-136 kt 209-251 km/h	Catastrophic damage will occur: Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.	13-18 feet
5 (major)	157 mph or higher 137 kt or higher 252 km/h or higher	Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.	Greater than 18 feet

Hurricane History

2023 North Atlantic Hurricane Season Track Map (click to enlarge)

In the following article, we look at NOAA and Colorado State University forecasts for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season which is expected to be very active.

NOAA 2024 Hurricane Season Predictions

2024 CSU Atlantic Hurricane Prediction

NHC Data Archive

We will continue coverage of Hurricane Preparedness Week by looking at some of the hazards starting tomorrow. Additional Hurricane information can be found in our static Hurricane Zone tab.

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather & Hurricane Zone tabs above.

If you live in, or plan to vacation in, an area where hurricanes are prevalent, please prepare in advance by reading our series.

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2024 National Hurricane Preparedness Week

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 18:01:00 +0000

National Hurricane Preparedness Week 2024

May 5^th through May 11^th

Be ready for hurricane season. Take action TODAY to be better prepared for when the worst happens. Understand your risk from hurricanes, and begin pre-season preparations now. Make sure you have multiple ways of receiving forecasts and alerts, and know what to do before, during, and after a storm.

The goal of NOAA's Hurricane Preparedness Web site is to inform the public about the hurricane hazards and provide knowledge which can be used to take ACTION. This information can be used to save lives at work, home, while on the road, or on the water.

Every year, hurricanes put communities at risk of catastrophic damage from storm surges, flooding, high winds, and tornadoes. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we rededicate ourselves to preventing loss of life and damage to property by raising awareness about hurricane hazards and taking action to protect our families, our homes, and our neighborhoods.

Hurricane season 2024: 'Storm Ready' helps get you prepared

NOAA Hurricane Prep: Videos (English)

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2024 CSU Atlantic Hurricane Prediction

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 14:46:00 +0000

2024 Atlantic Hurricane Forecast

Forecasters at the Colorado State University are predicting that the 2024 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have an extremely active 2024 hurricane season. The season begins June 1st and continues through November 30th.

UPDATED: JULY 9, 2024

On Tuesday, Colorado State researchers raised expectations following a hot start to the 2024 season. Experts are now expecting 25 named storms, 12 hurricanes and six major hurricanes in the Atlantic this year. The center pointed to Hurricane Beryl's record-breaking formation and intensity as indicative of the ongoing extreme conditions in the ocean.

Their current (June 11th) and past (April 4th) forecast predicts a 50% more likelyhood (over the averages from 1880 - 2020) for major hurricanes making landfall along the United States coastline and in the Caribbean.

The updated June forecast takes newly available data into consideration as the season commences. Uncertainty remains in the forecast, however, as the atmosphere-ocean system can sometimes change dramatically between this month and the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from August–October.

As is customary, NOAA made their first prediction at the end of May. So, why does Colorado State University's team of scientists create an April forecast? Mainly because the public is curious about predictions based on the current global oceanic and atmospheric conditions. The forecasting team created their predictions using a statistical model based on 29 years worth of data. This is the 41st year in which the CSU Tropical Meteorology Project has made forecasts of the upcoming season’s Atlantic basin hurricane activity.

Not the storm you are looking for? Click Image or Here

According to CSU scientists, "El Niño conditions are weakening quickly across the tropical Pacific and are likely to transition to La Niña conditions by the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. La Niña tends to weaken upper-level westerly winds across the Caribbean and the tropical Atlantic. These decreased upper-level winds result in reduced vertical wind shear, favoring Atlantic hurricane formation and intensification. "

Coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them, and they need to prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much or how little activity is predicted.

The Juine forecast calls for 23 named tropical storms with 11 strengthening to hurricane status. Of those hurricanes, 5 are predicted to be a major hurricane (Category 3,4, or 5). The team will issue additional forecasts on July 9 and Aug. 6.

The report also includes the probability of major hurricanes making landfall:

The team forecasts 62% for the entire U.S. coastline (average from 1880–2020 is 43%),34% for the U.S. East Coast, including the Florida peninsula (average from 1880–2020 is 21%),42% for the Gulf Coast from the Florida panhandle westward to Brownsville (average from 1880–2020 is 27%), and 66% for the Caribbean (average from 1880–2020 is 47%).

This is the highest predicted number of hurricanes that CSU has ever issued in a June outlook. The prior high was for 10 hurricanes in 2010 (when 12 were observed) and in 2022 (when eight were observed). June forecasts have been issued by CSU since 1984.

More reading: Current and Past Forecasts

Another reason why Colorado State University publishes forecasts is for hurricane preparedness. We too are publishing this information, along with updates throughout hurricane season, to help protect life and property when danger approaches.

As I've said many times, the cruise line industry has safety of passengers, crew, and vessels as their number one priority. The cruise lines work closely with the NHC and other agencies to monitor all sorts of weather conditions, including tropical storms. The ships may alter courses and cancel ports of call in order to maintain the level of safety for all onboard. We will keep you posted about any known itinerary changes during hurricane season. Should your cruise itinerary change due to a tropical storm, don't be upset, but rather thank the Captain and crew for taking you out of harm's way. Read our blog post 4 Things To Help Plan Vacation in Hurricane Season...

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather & Hurricane Zone tabs above. We will feature several articles during Hurricane Preparedness week once again. Until then, you can click the link below for last year's series.

Read Entire Series (click here)

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Hurricane Preparedness

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Hurricane Preparedness

#ItOnlyTakesOne

#HurricaneStrong

"It only takes one storm to change your life and community. Tropical cyclones are among nature’s most powerful and destructive phenomena. If you live in an area prone to tropical cyclones, you need to be prepared. Even areas well away from the coastline can be threatened by dangerous flooding, destructive winds and tornadoes from these storms." ~NOAA

June 1st is the Start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season

Updated June 2024

The goal of NOAA's Hurricane Preparedness Web site is to inform the public about the hurricane hazards and provide knowledge which can be used to take ACTION. This information can be used to save lives at work, home, while on the road, or on the water.

[Click Image for Day's Hurricane Preparedness Blog Page]

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone or severe tropical storm that forms in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and in the eastern Pacific Ocean. A typical cyclone is accompanied by thunderstorms, and in the Northern Hemisphere, a counterclockwise circulation of winds near the earth’s surface.

Every year, hurricanes put communities at risk of catastrophic damage from storm surges, flooding, high winds, and tornadoes. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we rededicate ourselves to preventing loss of life and damage to property by raising awareness about hurricane hazards and taking action to protect our families, our homes, and our neighborhoods.

For additional information about hurricanes, including useful links, see the static "Hurricane Zone" tab above.
If you live in, or plan to vacation in, an area where hurricanes are prevalent, please prepare in advance by reading our series.

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2024 Hurrican Season Predictions

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:36:00 +0000

NOAA predicts above-normal

2024 Atlantic hurricane season

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season has officially begun with the first named storm. The National Hurricane Center is prediting above-normal season due to La Nina and warmer-than-average ocean temperatures.

Alberto, hurricane season's first named storm, dissipates over Mexico

NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 8 to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.

Several factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation are influcing their prediction.

Useful Information and Links - Traveling during Hurricane Season

Cruise lines have travel apps and ask for emails and cell phone numbers for all guests. This allows them to communicate any urgent announcements to their guests. Be sure to provide them to your travel advisor or cruise line. They will also update their websites and FB pages with updates that impact guests due to storms or other issues. Some of these are always active links like the following:

Royal Caribbean Travel Updates

Hurricane Season Dates

Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and ends November 30th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th and also ends November 30th.
Make a Plan (FEMA)

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Cruise Impacts from Franklin and Idalia

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:47:00 +0000

Hurricane Franklin

Updated August 28, 2023

Hurricane Franklin, which was a Category 2 hurricane when we first published this article is now the first major storm of the 2023 Hurricane season.

Swells generated by Franklin are expected to begin affecting Bermuda by tonight. These swells are also likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions through the beginning of this week along portions of the east coast of the United States. Please consult products from your local weather office.

Hurricane Franklin


1100 AM EDT Mon Aug 28 2023
 
...FRANKLIN RAPIDLY INTENSIFIES INTO A CATEGORY FOUR HURRICANE...
...TROPICAL STORM WATCH ISSUED FOR BERMUDA...
Additional strengthening is possible today, but gradual weakening is expected to begin later 
Tuesday.

WIND:

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...145 MPH...230 KM/H

WATCHES/ WARNINGS:

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for...
* Bermuda

Tropical Storm Idalia

Tropical Storm Idalia is centered 70 nm ESE of Cozumel Mexico, moving E at 2 kt. Estimated minimum central pressure is 996 mb. Maximum sustained wind speed is 35 kt with gusts to 45 kt. Peak seas are around 10 ft. Idalia is expected to become a hurricane by Tuesday. Heavy rainfall from Idalia is expected across the eastern Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba. The heavy rainfall may produce areas of flash and urban flooding, as well as landslides, across western Cuba. Heavy rainfall is also likely to spread into portions of the Southeast U.S. by mid to late week. Minor coastal flooding is expected within the Tropical Storm Warning area over the Yucatan Peninsula in areas of onshore winds.

Tropical Storm Idalia


400 PM CDT Sun Aug 27 2023
...STORM SURGE AND HURRICANE WATCHES ISSUED FOR PORTIONS OF THE
FLORIDA GULF COAST...

WIND:

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...40 MPH...65 KM/H

WATCHES/ WARNINGS:

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for...
* Yucatan Peninsula from Tulum to Rio Lagartos, including Cozumel
* Pinar del Rio Cuba
 
A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for...
* Chokoloskee to Indian Pass Florida, including Tampa Bay
 
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for...
* Englewood to Indian Pass Florida, including Tampa Bay
 
A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for...
* Isle of Youth Cuba
* South of Englewood to Chokoloskee Florida
* Dry Tortugas Florida.

Please read the latest HIGH SEAS FORECAST issued by the National Hurricane Center at website - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/text/MIAHSFAT2.shtml and the latest NHC Forecast/Advisory and Public

Advisory at www.hurricanes.gov for more details on Franklin and Idalia.

Several Cruise Lines have already made changes to their itineraries in anticipation of the approaching storms. Cruise lines will take every precaution to protect passengers, crew, and ships from weather conditions. When traveling during hurricane season, it is common to have modified itineraries.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

NHC issuing advisories for the Atlantic on Hurricane Franklin and TS Idalia
NHC issuing advisories for the Eastern Pacific on TS Irwin
Marine warnings are in effect for the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean/SW Atlantic and Eastern Pacific

Royal Caribbean Itinerary Updates
(click for latest)

Royal Caribbean has multiple ships sailing toward the area of Tropical Storm Idalia, including Voyager of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas. As of now, however, there are no updates to the schedule announced by the cruise line.

Follow @JamesVanFleet or visit the Royal Caribbean Facebook page for frequent updates.

Disney Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)
Disney Fantasy is scheduled to visit Cozumel tomorrow morning.
MSC Cruises

No announced schedule changes for MSC at this time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)

Norwegian Pearl's itinerary calls for a stop in Bermuda, which will likely feel the effects of Hurricane Franklin.

Carnival Cruise Line Travel Alerts (click for latest)

Carnival Magic: Originally set to sail from Norfolk, VA to Bermuda on a six-day cruise, Carnival Magic will now instead sail to Half Moon Cay, Nassau and Freeport to steer clear of Hurricane Franklin.

Carnival Legend: Similar to Carnival Magic, Legend was slated to sail from Baltimore on a six-day cruise to Bermuda. Instead, it will now visit Nassau and Freeport.

Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Lady is scheduled to sail from Miami to Costa Maya, which would put in in the path of Idalia.

If you are sailing this week or next, please consult with your travel agent or the cruise line's website for up to the minute information. The information below was accurate at the time of publication.

Hurricane Season Dates

Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and ends November 30th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th and also ends November 30th.
Make a Plan (FEMA)

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Discover Alaska

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 20:38:00 +0000

From action-packed wilderness adventures to extraordinary 

sightseeing, a journey to Alaska is an unforgettable experience. 

There are three vacation options for experiencing the natural splendor of Alaska: Inside Passage, Northbound or Southbound cruise, and Guided Tours which 
can be added to a cruise or completed on their own.

With the completion of our Inside Passage cruise from Seattle on Discovery Princess (May 8-15, 2022) we have now experienced all three options.  We'd love to share our experiences with you.

We will start our exploration with our most recent voyage.

Pre-Cruise Seattle
We spent two days in Seattle, WA before boarding Discovery Princess.   We decided to rent a car from Seattle Airport and return it in Downtown Seattle.   This was a cost effective way of getting around from airport to hotel and doing some sightseeing as well.  After returning our car, we took an Uber to the pier which was about 4 miles away.

Staybridge Suites (click on link / image to view photo album)

Staybridge Suites Seattle - Fremont, an IHG Hotel

We stayed here two nights before our cruise. It is an extended stay hotel with full kitchens and free breakfast in downtown Seattle area.

Pagliacci Pizza

Pagliacci Pizza is a Seattle-based restaurant chain. It was recommended to us by our hotel receptionist. It was one of the best pizzas we ever had.

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium is the ninth largest aquarium in the U.S. by attendance and among the top five paid visitor attractions in the Puget Sound region.

Seattle Waterfront

After the aquarium visit, we got some soup from the

Alaskan Sourdough Bakery

and then headed to the Space Needle to purchase combo tickets for Chihuly Gardens and Glass and the needle.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum in the Seattle Center showcasing the studio glass of Dale Chihuly.

Space Needle

The Space Needle stands at 605 feet tall. The Space Needle offers 360-degree views from its three main viewing areas – an indoor observation deck and open-air viewing area located at 520 feet, and an observation level featuring a revolving glass floor located 500 feet above ground.

Ports of Call

The 143,700-ton, 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess, marks her inaugural season as the youngest ship in Alaska departing from Seattle on the popular seven-day Inside Passage itinerary. Ports of call are Ketchikan, Skagway, Cruising Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Juneau, and Victoria, BC, Canada.

Skagway

Skagway is a compact city in southeast Alaska, set along the popular cruise route the Inside Passage. It's home to gold-rush-era buildings, now preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan lived up to its reputation by greeting us with grey overcast skies and rain. Our plans called for some shopping which we did on the pier across from the ship.

Endicott Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer

The adventure begins as soon as you board your luxurious, high-speed catamaran directly from the cruise ship. Relax in the warm, spacious cabin surrounded by panoramic windows as your experienced captain sails past curious seals resting on floating icebergs.

Endicott Arm is a classic fjord, with turquoise tidewater, elevated glaciers, stunning mountains and a towering rock wall over a mile high. While exploring the length of this ice-carved fjord, cruise beneath cliffs that rise 4,000 feet above the jade-colored sea and feel the mist on your face as the vessel cruises almost directly under a plunging waterfall. The area teems with wildlife such as bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles and the waters are home to humpback whales and harbor seals.

The extraordinary maneuverability of your cruising vessel allows you to get as close as possible to the ever-changing face of the Dawes Glacier. From the topside observation decks enjoy unforgettable vistas. You can even see and feel the "white thunder," as immense spires of ice break from the glacier and crash into the sea. Unobstructed views present wonderful photo opportunities.

The catamaran pulled alongside Discovery Princess around 7 AM and we returned the same way in Juneau about 12:30 PM. We highly recommend this excursion - it was one highlight of our cruise.

Juneau

After spending the morning cruising Endicott Arm Fjord, our catamaran arrived in Juneau, Alaska. We had some lunch and relaxed onboard until it was time for our Salmon Bake excursion at 5:30 PM.

Alaska Salmon Bake

After a short, narrated bus ride you'll arrive at Salmon Creek, the outdoor site for your salmon bake. Listen to folk music while you dine under translucent, heated domes shielding you from the elements. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast. Savor Alaska-caught wild salmon barbecued over an open alder wood fire and accompanied by Parmesan chicken, au gratin potatoes, baked beans with reindeer sausage, wild-rice pilaf, a variety of salads, cornbread, lemonade, hot apple cider coffee and tea, as well as blueberry cake for dessert. Beer, wine and soda are available for purchase.

Stroll through the woods or roast marshmallows over the campfire after your meal. Take the short walk along Salmon Creek, a salmon spawning stream, to a breathtaking waterfall, where you can explore the remains of the historic Wagner Mine and try your hand at gold panning.

White Pass Scenic Railway

Built in 1898 as a way to expedite travel during the Klondike Gold Rush, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a three-foot-wide narrow gauge railroad that climbs from sea level to almost 3,000 feet in the first 20 miles. An engineering marvel, it features two tunnels and travels over sky-high trestles and bridges. Considered an impossible feat, the railway was completed in 26 months by blasting through the mountains with 450 tons of explosives. The 110-mile railroad was officially completed when a final golden spike was hammered into place on July 29, 1900, in Carcross, Yukon. Fully restored, the comfortable passenger coaches feature large picture windows and are pulled by diesel locomotives. At the completion of your excursion, convenient dockside service returns you directly to your ship.

What You See Along The Way:

The railway excursion is enhanced by the breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and unforgettable Klondike Trail of '98, a tribute to the optimistic prospectors in search of their fortune. The fully restored cars, pulled by vintage diesel locomotives, climb nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles of steep grades and around cliff-hanging turns. You'll retrace the original route to the White Pass Summit, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch. Take in the majestic panorama and historic sites from your large picture windows.

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2022 In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 01:13:00 +0000

Our Cruise Pause / Resumption Story

In February 2020 we were in Australia on a repositioning cruise from Melbourne, Australia to Singapore. The Covid-19 Pandemic was about to shutdown the cruise industry. Prior to departing Melbourne, we were informed that we would not be sailing to Singapore, but instead would be flying home from Perth, Australia, just 7 days into our cruise. The long pause in cruise travel had begun for us and our clients.

While on our Australia cruise, we had booked a South America & Antarctica cruise for January, 2021. Unfortunately, that too would be cancelled, along with a family vacation we'd planned for the summer.

The Cruise Travel Restart

In November, 2021 we attended our National Conference on Celebrity Apex. During that conference we were given the opportunity to book several cruises in 2022 at reduced rates in order for us to experience cruising after the restart and report to our guests. In addition, we had several cruises, like the ones mentioned above, that we'd need to reschedule. 2022 was going to be a busy cruise year for us.

We began 2022 with a sailing on the brand new ship & cruise line - Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady. The highlight of the year was our final river cruise on Avalon Waterways Imagery II from Prague to Frankfurt visiting several Christmas Markets. For more details, click below for our 2022 cruise page.

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Cruise Lines Lifting Testing Protocols

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 22:00:00 +0000

Covid-19 Rapid Testing

The image on the right may look familiar to many of you who have cruised during 2022. It is the Abbot Labs self-test kit accepted by the majority of cruise lines as a valid proctored rapid test.

While there hasn't been any formal declaration of an end to the pandemic, there have been some positive trends which has prompted the cruise lines to relax some of their Covid-19 protocols. The latest round of updates includes the lifting of testing requirements with certain exceptions.

We just returned from our Transatlantic cruise on Celebrity Beyond. This image was actually captured when we did our pre-cruise test at the airport.

Our particular cruise was one of the exceptions requiring passengers to be fully vaccinated, and to have a proctored PCR or Antigen test with negative results presented in order to board the ship.

Here are the latest updates from the cruise lines regarding testing requirements. It is best to consult your cruise lines' health and safety page prior to sailing as requirements fluctuate frequently.

Royal Caribbean and Disney have announced that they are lifting testing protocols for sailings departing from the United States with some exceptions. Check out all the details below.

Royal Caribbean

Summary
Royal Caribbean has already made the decision to welcome all guests, regardless of vaccination status, onboard their itineraries. Now, effective November 2, 2022, travelers on U.S., Barbados, or Singapore sailings — regardless of vaccination status — will no longer require pre-departure testing, with a few exclusions outlined below.

What You Need To Know

Vaccination Recommended:

We recommend that guests be fully vaccinated and boostered against COVID‐19.
While vaccination is not required, we kindly ask guests disclose their status during check-in.

Testing:

Effective November 2, 2022, all travelers — regardless of vaccination status — will no longer require pre-departure testing.

Exclusions apply to sailings to Colombia, Haiti, Honduras, Transatlantic and Australia sailings.

The Barbados Customs & Immigration form is no longer required for entry into Barbados.

U.S. & Barbados Departures visiting Colombia, Haiti, & Honduras:

All unvaccinated guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 3 days prior to sailing.
Fully vaccinated guests and guests ages 11 years and younger are exempt from this test.

Resources

Disney Cruise Line

Statement

Beginning November 14, 2022, for sailings departing from the United States, Disney Cruise Line will no longer require Guests (regardless of vaccination status) to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to sailing. Disney Cruise Line continues to highly recommend that all Guests be fully vaccinated and encourages unvaccinated Guests to take a COVID-19 test two days prior to sailing.

Resources

Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruise Line has announced that they are lifting testing protocols for sailings departing from the United States with some exceptions. Check out all the details below.

Statement

Beginning with departures on November 2, 2022: All travelers, regardless of vaccination status, are welcome to cruise with us and will no longer be required to provide proof of pre-departure testing, except for specific sailings where vaccination or testing are required by law.

What You Need to Know

Exceptions currently include:

Resources

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line has updated their pre-cruise testing protocols. Please see the details below.

Statement

Carnival Cruise Line is informing guests and travel agents of additional updates to its pre-cruise testing protocols for guests on voyages 15 nights or less. These changes are consistent with the evolving public health guidelines and will be acceptable for arriving cruise guests effective immediately. Vaccines, proof of vaccination, and testing for unvaccinated guests are no longer required on cruises of 15 nights or less. However, Carnival encourages all guests 5 years and older to be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines, when eligible, carry proof of vaccination, and get tested before embarkation.

What You Need to Know

Cruises of 15 nights or less: Although not required for either vaccinated or unvaccinated guests, Carnival encourages all guests 5 years and older to take a pre-cruise test within three days of their cruise.
Cruises of 16 nights or more: Guests age 5 years and older have to present a PCR or antigen test taken within 3 days before sailing (unsupervised self-tests are not accepted).
A VeriFLY pass is no longer necessary for check-in.

Resources

Have Fun. Be Safe.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruise Lines has lifted all protocols for most voyages.

Statement

Beginning October 21, protocols to cruising have been lifted. This means that for most voyages there are no longer vaccination or testing requirements. This applies to itineraries to all destinations except where government regulations may vary like Australia and on a few enhanced guidelines voyages that have their own vaccination and testing requirements.

Resources

Bermuda

Bermuda has announced that they will no longer require testing for cruise passengers beginning October 25, 2022. Health insurance requirements will remain the same.

Please be mindful that at this time, not all cruise lines websites are updated with the below information. It is important to continue referencing the cruise line websites for specific health and safety guidelines.

Statement

All Cruise travellers arriving October 25, 2022, onwards will no longer require a pre-travel test, arrival test or a day 4 test. Unvaccinated non-resident travellers will still be required to upload valid proof of travel health insurance to enter Bermuda.

Resources

Apply for a Bermuda Travel Authorisation
Click here for Bermuda’s definition of fully vaccinated
Click here for the requirements for valid proof of travel health insurance
Click here for the requirements for a valid pre-travel test.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Today, Norwegian Cruise Line announced it will eliminate COVID-19 requirements …

What You Need To Know

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that it has updated its global health and safety protocols by removing all COVID-19 requirements effective October 4, 2022 including:

Testing
Masking
Vaccination

With the easing of the Cruise Line’s health and safety protocols, NCL will continue to follow the travel guidelines as required by the destinations it visits.

Please see the resources below for more detailed information about the country requirements.

Resources

Cruise Travel Requirements by Country
For more information about the required travel documentation they will need for their NCL voyage – www.ncl.com/freestyle-cruise/cruise-travel-documents
Sail Safe

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Atlantic Hurricane Season Not Quite Over

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 23:01:00 +0000

Hurricane Lisa

Updated 11/2/22

We've just returned from our Transatlantic cruise on Celebrity Beyond from Barcelona, Spain to Cape Liberty, New Jersey. During our crossing, we had a couple of days with rocky conditions as the Atlantic Ocean conditions were impacted by tropical weather. Even though there were no tropical storms in the immediate area, their reach was felt for 500 miles.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends on November 1st, however Mother Nature doesn't necessarily check the calendar. There are currently two Hurricanes active in the Atlantic Basin.

Hurricane Lisa has impacted several cruise ship schedules. Royal Caribbean has three ships impacted and Carnival has one ship impacted:

Adventure of the Seas - currently sailing a 14-night Transatlantic, will have it's route adjusted to avoid the storm and provide smoother seas
Serenade of the Seas - on a 7-night roundtrip Western Caribbean sailing from Tampa, Florida, was scheduled to stop in Belize which is where Lisa made landfall
Symphony of the Seas - sailing a 7-night roundtrip Western Caribbean itinerary from Miami, Florida, will have it's port call in Honduras cancelled
Carnival Vista - changed port call in Belize to a sea day

Hurricane LISA


400 PM CDT Wed Nov 02 2022

...LISA ABOUT TO MAKE LANDFALL NEAR BELIZE CITY...

WIND:

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...85 MPH...140 KM/H

WATCHES/ WARNINGS:

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Hurricane Warning is in effect for...
* The coast of Belize
* Chetumal to Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for...
* North coast of Guatemala
* Puerto Costa Maya to Punta Allen, Mexico

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

NHC issuing advisories for the Atlantic on Hurricane Martin and Hurricane Lisa
Marine warnings are in effect for the Atlantic and Caribbean/SW Atlantic
Key Messages regarding Hurricane Lisa (en Español: Mensajes Claves)

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Bermuda Drops Testing Requirements

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 22:26:00 +0000

Bermuda has announced that they will no longer require testing for cruise passengers beginning October 25, 2022. Health insurance requirements will remain the same.

Statement

Resources

Apply for a Bermuda Travel Authorisation
Click here for Bermuda’s definition of fully vaccinated
Click here for the requirements for valid proof of travel health insurance
Click here for the requirements for a valid pre-travel test.

Personal Note:

This news came too late for our Transatlantic cruise. Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Beyond was scheduled to stop in Bermuda enroute from Barcelona to New Jersey. The port of call was changed to another sea day and the ports in Spain expanded due to the testing requirements that were still in effect prior to the cruise.

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Canada Drops Travel Requirements

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 17:11:00 +0000

Updated: September 29, 2022

The Public Health Agency of Canada has released an official press release today, Monday, September 26, 2022, relaxing vaccination, and testing protocols for travel to Canada effective October 1, 2022.

Statement

Today the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada. Effective October 1, 2022, all travelers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:

submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
provide proof of vaccination;
undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.

Transport Canada is also removing existing travel requirements. As of October 1, 2022, travelers will no longer be required to:

undergo health checks for travel on air and rail; or
wear masks on planes and trains.

Cruise measures are also being lifted, and travelers will no longer be required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines will remain to protect passengers and crew, which will align with the approach used in the United States.

Norwegian Cruise Line has updated its health & safety requirements.

Statement

Effective for sailings beginning September 30, 2022, all COVID-19 travel requirements, including vaccination, mandatory use of ArriveCAN, and any testing and quarantine/isolation protocols will no longer be required for travelers entering Canada by land, air or sea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Although Canada has lifted its COVID-19 travel requirements, including those specific to cruise passengers, all guests must still meet the following NCL embarkation requirements to board their upcoming cruise.

What You Need to Know

Embarkation Requirements:

All guests ages 12 years and older, must provide proof of ONE of the following:

Proof of completed series of one-dose or two-dose vaccination regimen.
Proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or NAAT test (i.e., PCR) taken within three days of the embarkation date.

Guests 6 months to 11 years are welcome aboard with no restrictions.

Important Note: While Norwegian welcomes unvaccinated guests, it is the responsibility of the guest to be aware of any local protocols and/or travel restrictions in place at the visiting destinations at the time of sailing.

Resources

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has released statements saying that they are ready to welcome all guests with Canada’s removal of all COVID-19 Requirements.

Seabourn Statement

Seabourn is ready to welcome all guests on board its voyages that visit Canada with the news from Transport Canada, which announced it will end all COVID-19 entry and testing requirements for visitors traveling to Canada. The new guidance will make it easier for guests to plan and travel on Seabourn’s Alaska and Canada and New England voyages during the summer and fall seasons.

Seabourn is updating its health protocols to align with Transport Canada’s revised guidelines for select voyages departing on and after October 1, 2022.

“We welcome the decision by Transport Canada that will make it easier for travelers to sail on our Alaska and Canada and New England voyages,” said Josh Leibowitz, Seabourn’s president. “These spectacular destinations have so much to offer and are highly coveted areas to visit. We look forward to welcoming our guests on board our ultra-luxury ships and delivering special ‘Seabourn Moments’ when they sail with us.”

Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruise Lines has updated its health & safety requirements for sailings visiting Canada.

Statement

Effective for sailings beginning October 1, 2022, we are welcoming all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, back onboard our sailings that visit Canada as long as they meet testing requirements to board.

What You Need to Know

Embarkation Requirements - Vaccinated Guests:

For all sailings 9 nights or shorter, no pre-boarding testing is required.
For all sailings 10 nights or longer, vaccinated guests ages 5 and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding.

Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted.
Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored.
Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot, or photo of the test result or the actual test.
Antibody tests are not accepted.

Embarkation Requirements - Unvaccinated Guests:

For all sailings guests ages 5 years and older, must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding.

Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted.
Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored.
Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot, or photo of the test result or the actual test.
Antibody tests are not accepted.

Important Note: While Celebrity welcomes unvaccinated guests, it is the responsibility of the guest to be aware of any local protocols and/or travel restrictions in place at the visiting destinations at the time of sailing.

Resources

Celebrity Healthy At Sea

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Preparing for Hurricane Ian

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 17:34:00 +0000

Hurricane Ian

Updated 9/28/22

Hurricane IAN is predicted to become a major hurricane. The second of 2022's Atlantic Hurricane Season has formed and is expected to strengthen. Hurricane Ian is projected to bring a perilous storm surge and winds as strong as 140 mph when it nears Florida's Gulf Coast in the middle of this week, the National Hurricane Center said on Monday. Ian is expected to remain at or near major hurricane strength as it passes near the west-central coast of Florida on Wednesday and Thursday.

State of Emergency Declarations

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for all of Florida on Saturday in preparation for Ian’s arrival this week, encouraging all residents to make preparations ahead of its arrival.

President Joe Biden declared a state of emergency for Florida on Saturday as Tropical Storm Ian gained strength and barreled toward the Sunshine State. The declaration authorizes the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts and provide assistance.

Airline Waivers

Due to Ian’s expected arrival, several airlines have proactively issued travel waivers for those that could be impacted for both Florida and other Caribbean airports. If you are traveling to the region this week, check with your airline for latest cancellations or flight changes.

In addition to possible delays to ship departures, cruisers scheduled to sail out of the central Florida ports of Port Canaveral and Tampa this week could face flight cancellations and delays.

Cruise Line Changes

Cruise lines headquarters are closely monitoring Hurricane Ian and staying in contact with their ships and the National Hurricane Center to keep crew, passengers, and ships out of harms way. During hurricane season, it is common to see itinerary changes which can include shortening or lengthening of cruises, rearranging of ports, changing complete itineraries (eg. from Western to Eastern Caribbean), or any other minor modification necessary to maintain safety. In addition, they are providing the National Hurricane Center with data to help determine conditions in the region. As changes are announced, we will update this page.

(see below for latest updates)

Port Conditions (explanations)

Port Canaveral (click for updates)

PortMiami (click for updates)

Port Tampa Bay (click for updates)

Port Everglades (click for updates)

Hurricane IAN


800 AM EDT Wed Sep 28 2022

...IAN EXPECTED TO CAUSE CATASTROPHIC STORM SURGE, WINDS, AND 
FLOODING IN THE FLORIDA PENINSULA STARTING LATER TODAY...

WIND:

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...155 MPH...250 KM/H

WATCHES/ WARNINGS:

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for...
* Chokoloskee to Anclote River, including Tampa Bay
* Dry Tortugas

A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for...
* Suwannee River southward to Flamingo
* Tampa Bay
* Lower Florida Keys from Big Pine Key westward to Key West
* Dry Tortugas
* Flagler/Volusia Line to the mouth of the St. Mary's River
* St. Johns River

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for...
* Cuban provinces of La Habana, Mayabeque, and Matanzas
* Indian Pass to the Anclote River
* All of the Florida Keys
* Flamingo to South Santee River
* Flamingo to Chokoloskee
* Lake Okeechobee
* Florida Bay
* Bimini and Grand Bahama Islands

A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for...
* Florida Keys from the Card Sound Bridge westward to east of Big
Pine Key
* Florida Bay
* Mouth of St. Mary's River to South Santee River

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

NHC issuing advisories for the Atlantic on Hurricane Ian
Marine warnings are in effect for the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean/SW Atlantic
Key Messages regarding Hurricane Ian (en Español: Mensajes Claves)
Local info on Ian: Key West, Miami, Tampa Bay, Melbourne

Royal Caribbean Itinerary Updates
(click for latest)

Mariner of the Seas. The 3,344-passenger Royal Caribbean ship has skipped a call scheduled for Labadee, Haiti, on Monday and instead is at sea. The Port Canaveral, Florida-based ship is on a five-night voyage that began on Saturday.
Liberty of the Seas. The 3,798-passenger Royal Caribbean ship will skip a call at Cozumel on Tuesday as it heads far more easterly than normal to avoid the storm. The ship is on a seven-night cruise out of Galveston, Texas.
Allure of the Seas. The 5,484-passenger Royal Caribbean ship will skip a call at Roatan, Honduras, scheduled for Tuesday as it also stays to the east to avoid the storm. The ship is on a six-night voyage from Fort Lauderdale.

Follow @JamesVanFleet or visit the Royal Caribbean Facebook page for frequent updates.

Celebrity Cruises(WEATHER UPDATE See latest advisories)

Celebrity Infinity. The 2,170-passenger Celebrity Cruises vessel pulled into Nassau in the Bahamas on Monday instead of being at sea as scheduled. It will skip a call in Belize on Tuesday and replace a call in Cozumel, Mexico, scheduled for Wednesday with a stop in Labadee, Haiti. The Fort Lauderdale-based vessel is on a seven-night voyage that began Saturday.

Disney Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)
As of September 26, at 9:00 PM We are closely monitoring Hurricane Ian. Based on the current projected forecast, we anticipate that the Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will sail as scheduled. However, there is a possibility that the Disney Wish will return to Port Canaveral on Friday, September 30, later than originally scheduled. We will notify Guests should it be necessary to delay embarkation for the September 30 Disney Wish sailing.

MSC Cruises

MSC Seashore. 4,540-passenger MSC Seashore is also heading to the Eastern Caribbean instead of the Western Caribbean. The Miami-based vessel, which departed the city on Saturday, will visit the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic over the next few days instead of Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Mexico.

Norwegian Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)

Norwegian Sky. 2,002-passenger Norwegian Sky was sent to the Eastern Caribbean for the week instead of the Western Caribbean to avoid the storm.

Carnival Cruise Line Travel Alerts (click for latest)

Among other vessels that could face disruptions are Carnival Cruise Line ships based in the Gulf of Mexico ports of Galveston; New Orleans; Mobile, Alabama; and Tampa, including Carnival Dream, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Glory and Carnival Paradise. The Port Canaveral-based Carnival Liberty also could be affected if Ian tracks eastward across Florida.

"Our fleet operations center in Miami is continuing to monitor Hurricane Ian and its potential impact on the itineraries for the following ships: Carnival Dream, Ecstasy, Glory, Liberty, Paradise and Sunrise," Carnival spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in a statement.

Of particular concern is Carnival Paradise, the only cruise vessel currently based in Tampa. It's due back in Tampa early Thursday from a five-night cruise to the Western Caribbean and scheduled to depart the city later that day on a new voyage. The current projections for Hurricane Ian's track put it close to Tampa by Thursday.

Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Lady. The 2,770-passenger Virgin Voyages vessel will skip a call at Costa Maya, Mexico, scheduled for Tuesday and visit Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic instead. The ship is on a five-night voyage out of Miami that began Saturday.

Hurricane Season Dates

Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and ends November 30th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th and also ends November 30th.
Make a Plan (FEMA)

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Hurricane Fiona Impacts Cruise Ships

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 22:34:00 +0000

Hurricane Fiona

Updated 9/20/22

Hurricane Fiona is now a major Category 3 hurricane. Hurricane Fiona left a wake of destruction including catastrophic flooding, widespread power outages, and mudslides, as it swamped Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic on Sunday and Monday, resulting in multiple deaths and dozens of rescue operations. Turks and Caicos and the eastern Bahamas are the next areas expected to be hit, with the National Hurricane Center projecting an estimated 4-8 inches of rainfall.

Fiona is moving toward the north-northwest near 9 mph (15 km/h). This general motion is expected to continue through today, followed by a turn toward the north tonight or Wednesday. On the forecast track, the center of Fiona will continue to move near the eastern Turks and Caicos during the next few hours, away from those islands by tomorrow, and approach Bermuda late on Thursday.

Several Cruise Lines have made changes to their itineraries in anticipation of the approaching hurricane. Several ports are planning closures, which is part of the reason for the changes.
We have listed several changes below.

Airports in the region were also impacted with several of them closing or cancelling flights. This included Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, St. Croix, and Puerto Rico. Some operations have resumed. Businesses and airports will be closed in Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas on Tuesday and Wednesday.

If you are sailing this week or next, please consult with your travel agent or the cruise line's website for up to the minute information. The information below was accurate at the time of publication.

Hurricane Fiona


1100 AM EDT Tue Sep 20 2022

...MAJOR HURRICANE FIONA CONTINUES TO BATTER THE TURKS AND CAICOS...

WIND:

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...115 MPH...185 KM/H

WATCHES/ WARNINGS:

CHANGES WITH THIS ADVISORY...

None

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:
 
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for...
* Turks and Caicos

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for...
* Southeastern Bahamas, including the Acklins, Crooked Island, Long
Cay, the Inaguas, Mayaguana, and the Ragged Islands

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

NHC issuing advisories for the Atlantic on Hurricane Fiona
NHC issuing advisories for the Eastern Pacific on TS Madeline
Marine warnings are in effect for the Caribbean/SW Atlantic and Eastern Pacific
Key Messages regarding Hurricane Fiona (en Español: Mensajes Claves)

Royal Caribbean Itinerary Updates
(click for latest)

Harmony of the Seas:

Other than keeping its originally planned visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Harmony is swapping out its Eastern Caribbean sailing, which departed September 18, for a Western Caribbean itinerary. In place of port calls to St. Thomas and St. Maarten, the ship will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel.

Follow @JamesVanFleet or visit the Royal Caribbean Facebook page for frequent updates.

Disney Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)
Disney Fantasy:

Disney Fantasy is keeping a scheduled call to Castaway Cay on September 23, but otherwise swapping over from an Eastern Caribbean sailing to a Western Caribbean itinerary. Instead of visiting Tortola and St. Thomas, the ship will call on Cozumel on today, Grand Cayman on September 20, and Falmouth, Jamaica on September 21.
MSC Cruises
MSC Seashore:

Like Disney and Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises is keeping its scheduled stop in the Bahamas this week, but replacing the rest of MSC Seashore’s Eastern Caribbean itinerary with a Western Caribbean one. Instead of visiting Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and the Dominican Republic, the ship will make stops in Roatan (Honduras), Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Norwegian Cruise Line Weather Alert (click for latest)

Norwegian Sky:

Norwegian Sky’s scheduled Eastern Caribbean sailing, which departed Miami on September 18, has been switched to a Western Caribbean itinerary. In place of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola and Great Stirrup Cay, the ship is stopping at Costa Maya, Roatan, Harvest Caye (Belize), and Cozumel.

Carnival Cruise Line Travel Alerts (click for latest)

Carnival Legend:

Carnival Legend, which departed Baltimore on September 17 on an eight-day sailing, will visit Nassau in The Bahamas on Wednesday, September 21 instead of Grand Turk. On Thursday September 22, the ship was scheduled to visit Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, but will now visit Bimini in The Bahamas, instead.

Carnival Freedom:

Carnival Freedom is currently on a five-day cruise out of Part Canaveral. On Tuesday, September 20, the ship will spend the day at sea instead of calling at Grand Turk. Instead of a day at sea on Wednesday, September 21, it will stop at Freeport, The Bahamas.

Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Lady:

Scarlet Lady made one change to its scheduled itinerary. Instead of visiting Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic on Sunday, September 18, the ship instead called in at Costa Maya, Mexico.

Hurricane Season Dates

Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and ends November 30th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th and also ends November 30th.
Make a Plan (FEMA)

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Virgin Voyages Updated Protcols

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 16:13:00 +0000

Virgin Voyages has updated their vaccination and testing protocols.

Statement

In keeping in line with the rest of the travel industry, we've updated our guidelines to make all voyages open to everyone — including Sailors who are unvaccinated. We will continue to create the safest environment at sea and in our terminal, including implementing top cleaning procedures before, during, and after every voyage. With the onset of these latest developments, we’re excited to welcome more of your Sailors who have been eagerly waiting to Set Sail The Virgin Way.

What You Need to Know

Vaccination Updates:

All Sailors (no matter their vaccination status) are welcome on board.
- Policy updates begin on 09/18/22 for all Valiant Lady voyages.
- Policy updates begin on 09/21/22 for all Scarlet Lady voyages.

Testing Update:

Unvaccinated Sailors are required to bring a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72-hours, or at the terminal for a fee of $30 on their embarkation date

Resources

Before You Sail

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MSC and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Update Protocols

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 15:35:00 +0000

MSC and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection have relaxed their vaccination and testing protocols.

MSC

Statement

As travelers seek to visit their favorite destinations once again, we have updated our health and safety protocols for U.S. residents sailing from U.S. ports to the Caribbean and The Bahamas. Vaccination is recommended but no longer required and pre-cruise testing is recommended but not required for fully vaccinated guests. Unvaccinated guests are required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test (NAAT or antigen) taken within 3 days of embarkation. Requirements for non-U.S. residents remain unchanged.

What You Need to Know

For U.S. residents sailing to the Caribbean and The Bahamas from U.S. ports
- Vaccination is recommended but no longer required.
- For fully vaccinated guests, testing is recommended (within 3 days of embarkation before boarding) but not required (with proof of vaccination), per our vaccination requirements.
- Unvaccinated guests (ages 2 and older) must show proof of a lab-administered negative COVID-19 viral test (NAAT or antigen) taken within 3 days of embarkation before boarding. Children under 2 years of age are not required to submit a negative test.
- Guests are encouraged but not required to purchase travel insurance.
  - MSC Cruises provides COVID-19 assistance at no extra charge for U.S. and Puerto Rico residents who are fully vaccinated. Children under the required vaccination age based on the dates above, regardless of vaccination status, traveling with fully vaccinated parents/guardians (with proof of vaccination) also benefit from this assistance.

Resources

Health & Safety Measures

Vaccine, COVID-19 Testing, and Travel Insurance FAQs

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Statement

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection welcomes all guests regardless of vaccination status. Vaccinated travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least two weeks prior to boarding the yacht. At this time, pre-voyage testing is not required for guests with proof of vaccination, unless local regulations stipulate otherwise.

Unvaccinated travelers may board the yacht with a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test taken within three (3) days prior to embarkation. As customary with cruise travel, guests will be required to complete a health questionnaire prior to boarding. Guests may also be asked to periodically undergo testing throughout the voyage at the discretion of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Departure tests will be offered as a convenience for guests in order to fulfill any requirements needed for their post-voyage travels.

Resources

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Health & Safety

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Azamara Updated Protocols

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:30:00 +0000

Azamara has updated their vaccination protocols.

What You Need to Know

Caribbean And Europe Sailings Vaccination Update:

Beginning December 1, 2022, we will no longer require proof of vaccination for sailings starting and ending in the U.S. or sailings starting and ending in Europe.
All other sailings require proof of vaccination and booster until further notice.
Guests can check specific travel restrictions for countries listed in the itinerary HERE or by visiting applicable government websites

Testing Reminder:

Azamara does not require a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding unless this is required by local country regulations. However, we highly recommend that guests take a COVID-19 test prior to starting their travels.
Please note that there are countries that still require guests to present a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding, and guests must adhere to all country requirements.

Resources

Explore Well at Sea
Guests can check specific travel restrictions for countries listed in the itinerary HERE

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Royal Caribbean Protocol Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 16:53:00 +0000

Updated August 30, 2022

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have announced that they are welcoming all guest, regardless of vaccination status, beginning with sailings departing on September 5, 2022, from any U.S. homeport (excluding sailings visiting Bermuda or Canada). Please make note of not only the changes to vaccination status for U.S. departures, but also testing requirements for some of our European itineraries.

What You Need To Know

All U.S. Departures beginning September 5^th (excluding Canada, Bermuda, and Transpacific sailings)

Vaccination:

If eligible, we recommend that guests be fully vaccinated against COVID‐19. While vaccination is not required, we kindly ask that guests disclose their status during check-in to ensure we maintain a highly vaccinated onboard population.
Grand Cayman will now allow unvaccinated guests to disembark in port

Pre-Cruise Testing:

Sailings 9 nights or less:
- Unvaccinated guests ages 5 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no earlier than 3 days prior to sailing.
- Fully vaccinated guests do not need to test for these sailings.
- Accepted tests are FDA‐approved PCR or antigen tests, which now includes self-tests. (Yes, the unsupervised ones!)
  - Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results, a clear photo of the self-test result, or the actual self-test in hand.
Sailings 10 nights or more:
- All guests ages 5 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no earlier than 3 days prior to sailing.
- Accepted tests are FDA‐approved PCR or antigen tests, which now includes self-tests. (Yes, the unsupervised ones!)
  - Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results, a clear photo of the self-test result, or the actual self-test in hand.

U.S. Departures visiting Bermuda beginning September 5^th

While requirements for sailing have changed for some destinations, most of Bermuda’s local regulations and requirements are still in place.
This means vaccination and pre-cruise testing requirements remain unchanged.
We’ve removed the boarding day test requirement.

Sailings beginning September 5^th that begin, end, or stop in Canada

While requirements for sailing have changed for some destinations, Canada’s local regulations and requirements are still in place.
The vaccination requirement and the pre-cruise & embarkation testing requirement (2 days prior for vaccinated guests | 3 days prior for unvaccinated + boarding day test) remain in place.

All European & UK Departures beginning September 5^th (excluding Transatlantic sailings)

Vaccination:

All European and UK Itineraries (excluding Transatlantic sailings)
- We recommend that guests be fully vaccinated against COVID‐19 and up to-date, when eligible.
- While vaccination is not required, we kindly ask you disclose your status during check-in to ensure we maintain a highly vaccinated onboard population.

Pre-cruise Testing (check departure port for info):

Sailings departing from Amsterdam, Barcelona, and the U.K.

Sailings 9 nights or less:
- Guests ages 12 years and older who are unvaccinated or not up-to-date must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no earlier than:
  - 24 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
  - 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
- Up-to-date guests do not need to test for these sailings.
- Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests, which now includes self-tests. (Yes, the unsupervised ones!)
  - Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results, a clear photo of your self-test result, or your actual self-test in hand.
Sailings 10 nights or more:
- All guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result.
- Up-to-date guests must present a negative COVID-19 test taken no earlier than 3 days prior to boarding day.
- Unvaccinated or not up-to date guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no earlier than:
  - 24 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
  - 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
- Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests, which now includes self-tests. (Yes, the unsupervised ones!)
  - Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results, a clear photo of your self-test result, or your actual self-test in hand.

Sailings departing from Athens, Greece

All guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than:
- 48 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
- 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests taken in person.
- Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results.
- Telehealth and unsupervised self-testing are not accepted for sailings departing from Greece

Sailings departing from Tarragona, Spain

All guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than:
- 48 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
- 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests taken in person or supervised virtually.
- Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results.
- Unsupervised self-testing is not accepted for sailings visiting Greece

Sailings departing from Haifa, Israel

All guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than:
- 48 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
- 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests taken in person or supervised virtually.
- Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results.
- Unsupervised self-testing is not accepted for sailings visiting Greece

Sailings departing from Italy visiting Greece

If the sailing departs from any Italian port and makes at least one (1) stop in Greece, the following testing is required.
- All guests ages 12 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than:
  - 48 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
  - 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
- Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests taken in person or supervised virtually.
  - Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results.
  - Unsupervised self-testing is not accepted for sailings visiting Greece

Sailings departing from Italy not visiting Greece

Vaccination:

Guests ages 12 years and older who are unvaccinated or not up-to-date must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no earlier than:
- 24 hours before boarding day if taking an antigen test
- 72 hours before boarding day if taking a PCR test
Up-to-date guests do not need to test for these sailings.
- Accepted tests are PCR or antigen tests, which now includes self-tests. (Yes, the unsupervised ones!)
- Proof of a negative test can be the printed or digital results, a clear photo of your self-test result, or your actual self-test in hand.

Onboard Testing:

Any sailing visiting Greece
- Guests ages 12 years and older who are unvaccinated or not up-to-date will require additional testing to be completed onboard at their own expense, in order to go ashore.
Any sailing ending in Spain
- Guests ages 12 years and older who are unvaccinated or not up-to-date will require additional testing to be completed prior to debarking in Spain at their own expense.

Resources

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Exciting News from Celebrity Cruises

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 21:30:00 +0000

Have You Been Waiting To Cruise Again - Wait No Longer

We just concluded the latest briefing by Celebrity Cruises regarding changes to testing and vaccination requirements both in the U.S. and Europe. They mentioned that Top Gun has their sequel Top Gun Maverick and they said this is Cruising's Sequel. As you can see from the charts below, more people are now able to cruise with relaxed requirements. There are only a few exceptions, which are anticipated to change in the near future as well. We can unravel the requirements and find the perfect cruise for you, your family, and your friends.

We encourage you to contact your Travel Advisor to plan your next vacation NOW. Pricing has remained steady, allowing ships to fill up. Don't miss the boat (ship)! Prices will rise - take our word for it. Your cruise deposit will lock in these low prices and also an incentive that is currently in place.

Here are the latest updates. Click on the images to enlarge. You can also visit Healthy Sailing page.

We can't stress enough - don't try to plan on your own. The requirements for our October sailing has changed 3 times in less than a month. We are keeping updated so you don't need to.

Current Celebrity Cruises Promotions

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Accessibility for All at Seas

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +0000

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL

DID YOU KNOW… That 12% of Americans with disabilities have taken a cruise in the last 5 years, while 10% of the general U.S. population has taken a cruise in the last 3 years. That means travelers with disabilities enjoy cruising at an even greater rate than those without!

Royal Caribbean International® believes the best vacations come without limitations. They are committed to providing the most accessible cruise vacation experience to guests with disabilities and special needs. That’s why they strive to meet the needs of every guest, by outfitting their ships with a wide variety of features designed to give access to all*, including guests who have:

Mobility disabilities
Hearing disabilities
Visual disabilities
Other disabilities including children with disabilities
People of short stature
Individuals with cognitive, intellectual and development disabilities

Every year, thousands of guests with disabilities and special needs sail on Royal Caribbean International. Wherever our ships can go, you can, too – on a cruise designed to wow and accommodate you.

*Activities and amenities vary by ship

PLANNING AHEAD

While we don’t require information about the type or extent of your disability, the more information you can share with us about your specific needs, the better we are able to assist you. We encourage you to notify us of your needs at the time of booking, however to guarantee availability of specific equipment or services, please provide at least:

60 days notice if you need sign language interpreting services
30 days notice if you need special equipment or services to accommodate your disability

If the cruise line does not receive enough advance notice, they will make reasonable efforts to provide requested equipment or services, but they do not guarantee they will be provided.

AUTISM FRIENDLY CERTIFICATION

Autism on the Seas certifies Royal Caribbean with an Autism Friendly Certification for their efforts to ensure their products and services are accessible for inclusion and participation by the autism and developmental disability community.

Autism Friendly Certification includes achievement in up to seven areas, such as cruise line staff training, youth program services, pre-vacation planning and services, dining and dietary needs, disability accommodations, guest satisfaction and feedback, and support for “Cruises with Autism on the Seas Staff.” There are four levels of certification, each progressing with increased levels of staff training.

Families with autism sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Autism Friendly Certified ships can be confident that Royal Caribbean has autism friendly products and services that will help accommodate family members with autism.

They offer Autism friendly films; toys; activities and a tv station that is geared to Autism. But this channel is only available on the following classes of ships – Quantum; Oasis; Freedom; Voyager and Radiance.

Their staff are required to have a 4-year degree or equivalent education and have at least 3-5 years of experience working with Autism teens and children.

CONTACT US WITH YOUR SPECIAL NEEDS

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Let's Make a Deal Princess Cruises

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Sun, 21 Aug 2022 20:06:00 +0000

Princess Upgrade Program

One thing I love about the cruise industry is the lines love to imitate each other. If you see a new innovation, including changes in ship design, dining options, activities, or service offerings, odds are that if you wait awhile, you'll see the same or similar introduced on other ships / cruise lines.

The latest trend is the ability to bid to upgrade your cabin. First introduced by Royal Caribbean International on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises (Royal UP), Princess Cruises becomes the latest to offer this option to passengers.

Starting next month, passengers who have paid their final payment will receive an email inviting them to bid on an upgrade to the next higher cabin category. For example, you could purchase an Interior stateroom and bid on an Oceanview; or an Oceanview and bid on a Balcony cabin.

Princess Cruises has not released complete details, but we would imagine they will suggest minimum bids for each of the cabin upgrades you are being offered. The more you bid, the more likely you will actually win the upgrade.

How Does Princess Upgrade Work?

Check whether your cruise is eligible for bidding on an upgrade.
Browse through the upgrade options available and place your bid(s) to upgrade your stateroom on your upcoming cruise. Making a bid on multiple staterooms will increase your chances of being upgraded, but you’ll only pay for one.
Get notified via email if your request for an upgrade has been approved. If your bid is accepted, you’ll be charged for the upgrade. If not, you’ll enjoy the stateroom you already have and won’t be charged anything additional.

Your bid is priced per person and based on two guests per stateroom for the length of your cruise. 3rd and 4th guests in a stateroom are upgraded without additional cost.

By the end of October, Princess Cruises intends to launch this new program fleetwide, but it will initially be available on five ships that sail from the U.S. Beginning September 6, guests sailing Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Regal Princess, Ruby Princess, and Caribbean Princess will have first access to participate in the program.

Are You Feeling Lucky?

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Disney Joins Cruise Lines Adjusting Protocols

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 19:58:00 +0000

Disney Cruise Line

Updated September 27, 2022

Disney Cruise Line has updated its health & safety requirements.

Statement

Beginning Oct. 14, 2022, for Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish sailings and Nov. 7, 2022 for Disney Magic sailings, Disney Cruise Line will no longer require Guests to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of sailing, however, it is highly recommended. All Guests ages 5 years and older who are not fully vaccinated (Unvaccinated Guests) will need to submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken 1-2 days before the sail date. Guests ages 4 years of age and younger do not require testing.

Today, August 15, Disney Cruise Line announced an update to our Health and Safety Protocols regarding vaccination requirements.

What You Need To Know

Beginning September 2, 2022, for sailings departing US and Canadian ports, Disney Cruise Line will require Guests ages 12 and older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of sailing, as defined by the CDC. (previously 5 and older)
Testing Requirements – Fully Vaccinated Guests
- Departing US and Canadian ports:
  - Must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result (paid for by the Guest) taken one to 2 days before setting sail to be exempt from embarkation testing at the terminal.
  - A NAAT, PCR, and Antigen tests accepted.
    - Antigen tests must be completed using a proctored in-person or telehealth service and come with digital results that can be uploaded to the Safe Passage website.
  - Proof of Vaccination and pre-trip test results must be uploaded into the Inspire Diagnostics Safe Passage website by midnight prior to embarkation day.
    - Fully vaccinated Guests who upload their pre-trip test results to the Safe Passage website by midnight prior to embarkation day will be exempt from embarkation testing.
    - Fully vaccinated Guests who do not upload test results by midnight prior to embarkation day must be tested at the terminal on embarkation day before boarding the ship and will be charged for the cost of the test.
    - A parent or legal guardian will need to use their own account to provide this information on behalf of minors.
  - Guests with positive COVID-19 test results are required to complete a second confirmatory test.
    - Guests with confirmed positive test results—as well as those sharing the same stateroom and other close contacts—will be denied boarding.
Testing Requirements – Not Fully Vaccinated Guests
- Must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken one to 3 days before the sail date.
  - The test should be a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT), a rapid PCR test or a lab-based PCR test.
  - Rapid antigen tests are not accepted.
  - Two tests will be required for Guests not fully vaccinated. The second test will be conducted at the terminal on embarkation day (paid for by Disney Cruise Line).
    - Guests with positive COVID-19 test results are required to undergo a second confirmatory test.
    - Guests with confirmed positive test results—as well as those sharing the same stateroom and other close contacts—will be denied boarding.
  - Must upload their negative COVID-19 test results on the Inspire Diagnostics Safe Passage website by midnight prior to embarkation day.
    - A parent or legal guardian will need to use their own account to provide this information on behalf of minors.
Testing Costs
- The cost of embarkation tests for fully vaccinated Guests will be $74.00 (USD) plus tax for the initial antigen test,
  - If a confirmatory PCR test is needed the cost will be $125.00 (USD) plus tax.
- For Canada sailings, the cost of embarkation tests for fully vaccinated Guests will be $95.00 (CAD) plus GST for the initial antigen test
  - If a confirmatory PCR test is needed the cost will be$160.00 (CAD) plus GST.
Back-to-Back Sailings: All Guests on consecutive, back-to-back sailings, regardless of age and vaccination status, will be required to complete a COVID-19 test between sailings, paid for by Disney Cruise Line.
Guests Recently Recovered from COVID-19: In some cases, people who have recently recovered from COVID-19 may still test positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- If Guests have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 within 11 to 90 days of their sail date, they may qualify to be considered as “90-Day-Recovered.”
- With the appropriate documentation and subsequent approval, Guests considered “90-Day-Recovered” are not required to participate in COVID-19 testing during the Pre-Sail, Embarkation or Debarkation phases of their voyage.

Resource

Know Before You Sail
Learn more about sailings arriving to and departing from Europe.
Learn more about sailings arriving to and departing from Canada.

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Latest Cruise Testing & Vaccination Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Pappin) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 16:00:00 +0000

How Do Changes Impact Your Vacation Plans?

this post serves as an anchor for all updates

Last Update: October 26, 2022

As of July 18, 2022, CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships is no longer in effect. CDC will continue to publish guidance to help cruise ships continue to provide a safer and healthier environment for passengers, crew and communities going forward. Since that time the cruise lines have been working with medical consultants and the various ports of calls to establish new protocols and other guidelines for safe travel.

In early August the cruise lines began announcing their plans and some have already adjusted those further. We continue to meet with the various cruise lines and get weekly (sometimes daily) updates on the latest protocols, testing, and vaccination requirements. Here is a summary of the latest information.

Most changes go into effect in early September.

Canada (updated September 28, 2022)

Canada has dropped their travel requirements effective October 1, 2022. Read More

Cruise Line Announcements

Carnival Corporation

(Carnival, Cunard, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises)

Updated: October 26, 2022

Updated: October 21, 2022

Princess Cruise Lines has lifted all protocols for most voyages.

Statement

Updated: August 24, 2022

Carnival Corporation announced protocol updates that meet public health goals but recognize the evolving nature of COVID-19. With these changes, we are making it easier for more guests to sail with simplified vaccination and testing guidelines, including no testing for vaccinated guests on sailings less than 16 nights, and eliminating the exemption request process for unvaccinated guests, who will only need to show a negative test result at embarkation.

All new guidelines are effective for cruises departing on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022 or later. Read More

Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have shared vaccination and pre-cruise testing updates for cruises departing from Los Angeles, Galveston, New Orleans, and European ports. They continue to work with local governments in the Eastern Caribbean to align on vaccination requirements for more itineraries. Read More

August 30, 2022 Update

Celebrity Cruises announced new testing & vaccination rules - particularly of note are changes for Trans-Atlantic sailings which will be coming up shortly. Read More

Royal Caribbean made similar changes to their sailings. Read More

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

October 4, 2022 - Norwegian Cruise Line announced it will eliminate COVID-19 requirements … Read More

September 27, 2022 - Norwegian Cruise Line has updated its health & safety requirements.

(Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises)

The day that many of our customers have been waiting for is here! Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) which includes Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises have updated their SailSAFE program with new vaccine requirements to allow unvaccinated guests to sail.

Disney Cruise Line

September 27, 2022 - Disney Cruise Line has updated its health & safety requirements.

Today, August 15, Disney Cruise Line announced an update to our Health and Safety Protocols regarding vaccination requirements. Read More

Windstar

Small ship line Windstar Cruises has dropped its pre-cruise testing requirements. The line is still requiring that all of its guests be vaccinated to sail.

Azamara (September 1, 2022)

Azamara has updated their vaccination protocols for Caribbean and European sailings beginning December 1, 2022. Read More

MSC & Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (September 2, 2022)

MSC and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection have relaxed their vaccination and testing protocols for U.S. residents sailing from U.S. ports to the Caribbean and The Bahamas. Read More

Virgin Voyages (September 9, 2022)

In keeping in line with the rest of the travel industry, Virgin Voyages updated their guidelines to make all voyages open to everyone — including Sailors who are unvaccinated. Read More

Caribbean Islands (Florida & Other U.S. departures)

Expect to see more changes in the days ahead. Discussions are underway with the various island countries. Those ports of call dictate the requirements for various itineraries. Here are some notable highlights from the various Caribbean countries:

Starting August 22, 2022, unvaccinated travelers will again be able to visit Bermuda.
St. Kitts and Nevis has Ended COVID-19 Restrictions
The Cayman Islands government has announced it is dropping all its remaining travel-related COVID restrictions

Bermuda

Bermuda has announced that they will no longer require testing for cruise passengers beginning October 25, 2022. Health insurance requirements will remain the same. Read More: Bermuda Drops Testing Requirements

Protocols are subject to change at any time. Communications to guests will vary by cruise line and by destination. Please consult your travel advisor or cruise line website for your specific sailing.

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