ALL passengers cruising to and from Victoria over 12 must have received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and must also obtain a negative COVID test before embarking, under restrictions implemented by the state’s government this week. Unvaccinated children under 12 or anyone with a valid medical exemption can travel,...
ALL passengers cruising to and from Victoria over 12 must have received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and must also obtain a negative COVID test before embarking, under restrictions implemented by the state’s government this week.
Unvaccinated children under 12 or anyone with a valid medical exemption can travel, but they must not make up more than 5% of the ship’s passengers.
Guests with COVID-19 symptoms may board a ship, but they must return another negative PCR test.
Passengers must also wear masks when embarking and disembarking, as well as while indoors on board the ship, if social distancing is not possible.
Crew members will need to have received three doses (with exceptions for those who aren’t yet eligible), and will receive a COVID test every 14 days, or when symptomatic.
They must also be masked on board at all times, except when in their staterooms.
Requirements for entry to Victoria for crews will be the same as those for aircrews.
Meanwhile, cruise lines must undertake public health measures to reduce the risk of COVID transmission, including developing COVIDSafe plans for shore excursions, and managing cases and contacts onboard; however, these protocols will not apply to vessels with fewer than 100 passengers.
“The return of cruise ships later this year is great news for our visitor economy, and our COVIDSafe protocols will protect workers, passengers, and the communities and attractions that will host cruise ship excursions,” said Health Minister Martin Foley.
