Mask-wearing makes a comeback on some cruises in wake of COVID-19 outbreaks

Just when we thought the jaw ache was over, a few cruise lines have put masks on some ships.

The mask policies for Coral Princess, Majestic Princess, Grand Princess, Carnival Splendor, and Carnival Luminosa, all of which are based in Australia and New Zealand, were reactivated by Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line on November 17th. Royal Caribbean International requires passengers to wear masks on their ships, which are also sailing down under.

The countries reopened to cruise ships earlier this year after being shut down for more than two years. The need for masks has been necessitated by a larger number of cases on ships due to a delayed outbreak.

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"As a result of an increase in community COVID-19 transmission in Australia, and out of an abundance of caution, masks are required in all indoor settings on cruises visiting Australia and New Zealand until further notice." Princess is working with global health experts to adjust health guidelines as needed.

Carnival and Royal Caribbean did not reply to the request.

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In March, cruise lines stopped requiring passengers to wear masks in other destinations. Most lines waive masking requirements for cruisers who are unvaccinated, but they make it clear that policies are subject to change based on local government requirements.

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