MIAMI - There’s good news for cruisers over the age of 70 years. They will not have to provide a doctor's note in order to be able to cruise, once operations resume.
The requirement was called for by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) before cruise operations were suspended in March due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Royal Caribbean's senior vice president of sales and trade support, Vicki Freed, in a video presentation to travel agents, confirmed that the medical notes - known as a "Fit-to-Sail" form - would no longer be required once cruise operations resume.
CLIA, in a statement, clarified its position: “Additional measures for passengers over 70 had been developed and were adopted by some cruise lines, but were immediately superseded by the suspension of cruise operations in March.
“As there are no further embarkations during the suspension period, these requirements have been removed. CLIA is now working with its members to review all Public Health Policy measures for CLIA ocean-going cruise lines, including the consideration of potential new protocols.
“Prior to resumption of passenger operations, CLIA will issue a revised set of protocols reflective of what the medical community has learned about COVID-19.”
Cruise lines are developing their own safety enhancements in conjunction with government health authorities, industry bodies and medical experts.