Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has announced that it will require travelers who are not vaccinated to have specific insurance. Will this violate Florida law?Click here to book travel and sign up for a credit card. Both of these support LiveAndLetsFly.com.Add us to your Facebook or Instagram account today if you haven't already.Royal Caribbean requires unvaccinated travel insuranceRoyal Caribbean International, the largest cruise line in terms of revenue and second by passenger volume has modified its COVID-19 travel policy.Royal Caribbean International announced Tuesday that it will require guests traveling from Florida who are not vaccinated or have proof of COVID-19-related medical expenses, quarantine, and evacuation to show proof of their insurance. Royal Caribbean International announced Tuesday that it would require guests traveling from Florida who are not vaccinated to show proof of insurance that covers COVID-19 related medical expenses, quarantine and evacuation.For guests who have not been fully vaccinated, there are additional requirements. These include the requirement to wear a mask and submit to further testing (at their expense), as well as specific health protocols.If you have been fully vaccinated, you can show your status to get around the restrictions. You will still be able to enjoy Cococay but not this week. Elsa is threatening South Florida's cruise ports. This will make it difficult for many to enjoy their long-awaited cruise vacations.Florida Law Prohibits Vaccination Status QuestionsA few weeks ago, it was caught up in a dispute between the CDC and the State of Florida. Although the CDC granted a temporary moratorium to its No Sail Order, it required that cruises have a minimum 95% vaccination including passengers and crew. Florida passed new legislation (SB2006) that prohibits any business from disclosing vaccination status. Royal Caribbean could not be sure it was complying with the CDC order, even though it found itself out of compliance.A Federal judge ruled that the CDC could not replace Florida law. Governor Ron DeSantis declared it a victory.Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises Freedom of the Seas, which was the subject of the first proof cruise, doesn't require vaccination status disclosure. What would stop a traveler not fully vaccinated, however?In writing or in spiritOver the past few weeks there has been some discussion in the comments section. The first was about Florida's SB 2006. A discussion erupted about whether or not there could be a discount for vaccinated travelers. It was also discussed whether or not this would constitute price discrimination, similar to a surcharge that is based on vaccination status.Although the latest RCI move is a possible solution, it seems likely that it will be quickly challenged in court. This could result in a loss to the cruise ship operator. They can't ask for proof of vaccination, but they can demand insurance if the traveler refuses to provide it. This will in effect give the same obligation to disclose. Travelers may opt to have insurance for financial reasons, but they must wear a mask and an identification that clearly shows they have not been vaccinated.Although it may or may not circumvent government requirements to the letter, it is clear that it does not follow the spirit of law. This may be enough to justify a new lawsuit as well as one that refers back to previous case law.ConclusionDespite clear guidance from the legal system, and a clear path forward provided by both the State of Florida (CDC), Royal Caribbean has reacted to the situation and is now in trouble. Royal Caribbean may be trying to attract customers back into cabins and beaches by offering safety onboard its vessels. However, this could lead to Royal Caribbean being in trouble.Let us know what you think. Is RCI's travel insurance policy in Florida against the law? It will stand.
