The Cruise Industry has been one of the hardest hit during the COVID-19. Even now, over a year into the pandemic, the cruise industry has to meet more rigorous requirements to resume operations than many other transportation sectors. However, long-awaited re-opening is finally underway in most regions. Everyone is eager to return to some semblance of normal and get back to work or a vacation. However, it is no surprise many new challenges are facing the cruise industry at this time. Despite good intentions, COVID-19 cases are still popping up occasionally onboard ships, posing serious public health concerns. However, hope is not lost, and proper safety precautions can be taken to create an atmosphere of health and safety once again in the cruise industry. Here are five recommendations for a safe return to service.
- COVID-19 Vaccinations
This is arguably the most important step an individual can take in preventative action against the virus. Those that are vaccinated are less likely to become infected. Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 can reduce the risk of death by more than 85%, even for strains such as the Delta variant. Having an appropriate vaccination policy and procedure in place for the crew and passengers will be the best and quickest way for any cruise line to resume operations.
- Testing & Heath Screening
While vaccines can reduce the transmission and symptoms of COVID-19, they do not offer complete immunity to the virus. Breakthrough cases (becoming infected after vaccination) are still being reported to the CDC, many of which are related to the Delta variant. Therefore, negative COVID-19 tests are still an essential part of ensuring safety. The general population is recommended to be screened every 14 days even if fully vaccinated. Policies should be put in place for routine screening of the crew. Consider increased frequency in testing for personnel with higher exposure risk, such as housekeeping or restaurant staff.
- Wear a Mask
Although many of us were hoping to put aside the days of uncomfortably mask-wearing, it is still a prudent approach to the situation, especially with the emergence of more aggressive strains such as the Delta variant. Mask wearing indoors is still a crucial step in maintaining safety and minimizing exposure risks. Cruise lines should consider providing front-of-house staff with standard medical grade N95/FFP2 masks.
- Case Detection & Management
Although it may be a worst-case scenario, having a procedure in place for a confirmed COVID-19 case onboard is critical. Quick and effective isolation in a pre-designated cabin and safety protocols are of the utmost importance in preventing the further spread of the virus. Much of the regulatory guidance was written with the Alpha variant in mind, so cruise lines should reassess their safety protocols as new variants emerge. Cruise lines should also have a predetermined plan in place on how to handle contact tracing. Technologies such as wearable bands can or adapted services such as assigned seating are good options to utilize.
- Crew Training
Crew training, no matter the policy and procedure, is imperative for a cruise ship’s safe and efficient operation. The crew should have thorough training on all COVID-19 procedures to understand what actions need to be taken as each potential situation arises. Reading the policies and procedures is often not enough for proper understanding. For the most effective training, explain to your crew the why behind the policies and procedures.
The cruise industry is ready to make a comeback. With new beginnings come new opportunities to attract audiences who otherwise may not have considered a cruise before. Although there is no single solution to lessen the hazards of COVID-19, a multi-layered approach to these public health challenges will provide the health and safety needed for the cruise industry to have smooth sailing once more. For more information and resources on how to protect your crew and passengers against COVID-19, visit vickland.com.
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