PRINCESS Cruises SVP Asia Pacific Stuart Allison has released a public message defending the cruise line’s handling of the Ruby Princess’ disembarkation in Sydney last week. In the address, Allison stated that Ruby Princess was considered “low risk” for COVID-19 upon returning to Sydney, and that despite this, the onboard...
PRINCESS Cruises SVP Asia Pacific Stuart Allison has released a public message defending the cruise line’s handling of the Ruby Princess’ disembarkation in Sydney last week.
In the address, Allison stated that Ruby Princess was considered “low risk” for COVID-19 upon returning to Sydney, and that despite this, the onboard medical team took “no chances” and requested any pax reporting flu-like symptoms to self-isolate in their cabins.
“The ship then reported these cases to federal and state authorities as we’re always obliged to do,” Allison said.
“Tests for COVID-19 are not conducted on cruise ships, and that is the protocol that applies the world over, shoreside public health authorities do the testing as part of their surveillance measures.
“As we now know, some of the swabs from Ruby Princess tested positive, this news was as disappointing as it was unexpected,” he added.
In light of the medical findings, Allison admitted the cruise line shared NSW Health’s concerns, and that it is now “working closely” with them to ensure future health policies on board its cruise ships are at the best standards possible.
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