Skiff guests with face masks due to COVID-19 safety measures

COVID-19 Protocols for Small Ship Cruises

As the small ship cruise lines ramp up to begin sailing again, travelers must be educated about the various COVID-19 protocols that must be followed to ensure save travel for all.

The following information will be updated as new information is provided.

COVID-19 Protocols
Cruise LineVaccineSafety Measures

Alaskan Dream Cruises


COVID Protocol


All guests 18 years of age and older must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.Proof of negative results from a PCR test administered within 4 days (96 hours) of cruise embarkation (Alaskan Dream Cruises will administer an additional antigen test prior to embarkation). Thorough and constant disinfection of all common areas and touch points. Increased hand sanitation stations throughout each vessel. Elimination of all buffet and self-serve food and beverage options. Sterilizing UV lights on HVAC/vent systems. Masks are required when occupying or transiting all public areas for crew and guests.
American Cruise Lines

COVID Protocol

Passengers who are fully vaccinated (two weeks after their final shot) are not required to get tested before their cruise.

Those who are not vaccinated must test negative for COVID-19 with a NAAT or PCR test within four days of their trip.

American Cruise Lines ships are currently operating at 75% capacity. Each ship has the ability to test passengers onboard.
American Queen Steamboat Company
COVID Protocol
All guests and crew must be fully vaccinated (14 days after their final shot) for sailings starting July 1.Before boarding, guests must check in to a pre-cruise hotel and get tested for COVID-19. Luggage is then disinfected before being brought onto the ship and staterooms cleaned with electrostatic fogging. Masks will be required when social distancing isn't possible.
Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic

COVID Protocol

All guests 16 years old and older will need to be vaccinated before boarding.

In June, Lindblad Expeditions plans to resume operations with trips to Alaska and the Galápagos.

All guests will be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test as well as undergo a second rapid antigen test before boarding.

UnCruise Adventures

COVID Protocol

All guests and crew 18 and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding for all itineraries, except the Galapagos. Those under 18 will be able to join a trip without the need to get vaccinated.

UnCruise Adventures plans to sail to Alaska this summer and is unaffected by Canada's cruise ban.

All guests must show proof of a negative molecular COVID-19 test taken within four days of boarding. Mask wearing is mandatory when unable to social distance, and each ship can perform rapid molecular tests on board.

Victory Cruise Lines

COVID Protocol

All guests and crew will be required to be vaccinated on sailings starting July 1.Guests must check in to a hotel before their cruise and be tested. Before boarding, guests must undergo a temperature check and have their luggage disinfected. Staterooms are disinfected with electrostatic fogging twice each day, and masks are required when social distancing is not possible.
Viking Expeditions

COVID Protocol

All guests must be fully vaccinated to board one of the summer cruises.All guests will be required to undergo a saliva PCR test at embarkation as well as "frequent" testing throughout the journey. All staterooms are equipped with independent air handling units.
Windstar Cruises

COVID Protocol

All guests will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding one of Windstar's yachts.All guests must also undergo a COVID-19 rapid antigen test at the pier before boarding, and electrostatic sprayers using hospital-grade, EPA-approved sanitizing solutions will be used on surfaces and in public spaces on the ships. All crew will be tested with a PCR test each week. Guests who want to leave the ship will need to do so on a Windstar shore excursion. Windstar also offers the option of getting tested for a fee before disembarking in order to comply with border testing requirements.

Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises toll-free at 1-888-815-5428 for information and to book your small ship adventure of a lifetime.