After more than two-and-a-half years, Taiwan has lifted a ban on
international cruises that was introduced to prevent the spread of
Covid-19.
The news is being greeted with relief by cruise companies who have had to bypass a destination popular with cruisers.
The Maritime and Port Bureau lifted the ban this week after Taiwan
ended mandatory quarantine for all overseas arrivals two weeks ago.
Taiwan has notified cruise lines of new protocols based on similar
regulations introduced by the EU, the US and Australia. This calls for
cruise passengers to present a negative rapid Covid-19 test taken on the
day of arrival in Taiwan or the previous day.
Taiwan has been allowing domestic cruise trips around Taiwan itself
and outlying islands during the pandemic, but the lifting of the
international ban will be welcomed by cruise lines who are keen to meet
pent-up demand with extended itineraries.