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Royal Caribbean tightens cruise mask policy as COVID-19 cases climb in US

Dec. 18, 2021
2 min read
Signage for mask requirements on Freedom of the Seas
Royal Caribbean tightens cruise mask policy as COVID-19 cases climb in US
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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.

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(Screenshot courtesy Royal Caribbean)

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."

Featured image by Signage throughout the ship reminds Freedom of the Seas passengers to mask up when coming in from outdoors. (Photo by Ashley Kosciolek/The Points Guy)
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3 / 5
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6X6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
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    670-850
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Why We Chose It

The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.

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  • Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.
  • Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
  • 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
  • 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
  • 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
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  • Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card.
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