Royal Caribbean tightens cruise mask policy as COVID-19 cases climb in US
In response to the increase in COVID-19 cases due to the omicron variant, Royal Caribbean has tightened its onboard mask policies. The line will now require all passengers to wear masks in all indoor public areas unless eating or drinking.
That includes fully vaccinated cruisers, even when they're visiting onboard areas designated as vaccinated-only.
Previously, certain areas of Royal Caribbean's ships -- such as the spas, teppanyaki restaurants, lower levels of the theaters, and specific bars and lounges -- were reserved for those who had received the full course of shots. When frequenting those locations, passengers were able to remove their masks.
Although wording on the line's website indicates separate areas for vaccinated passengers will remain, cruisers in those areas will have to keep their masks on, at least on sailings departing through Jan. 5, 2022, at which time the policy will be revisited.
"We feel it prudent to temporarily tighten our onboard health protocols," the line said in a statement sent to booked passengers. "We're sorry for any disappointment that this may cause, but hope you understand that health and safety come first."
TPG featured card
at Capital One's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X miles | Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2X miles | Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day |
Pros
- Stellar welcome offer of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, a $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year upon account opening.
- You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories
- Rewards are versatile and can be redeemed for a statement credit or transferred to Capital One’s transfer partners
Cons
- Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Top rated mobile app