Like many industries, the entire cruise industry has been halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While cruises that hold more than 250 passengers and crew are suspended due to a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mandate, this does not apply to many small ship cruise lines, with many ships carrying 120 or fewer passengers.
Many small ship cruise operators could theoretically be operating now since most of their ships are under the 250-person threshold. However, state and local conditions may not currently allow for operations. Additionally, the travel industry as a whole, and particularly cruise operators due to the negative impressions of the pandemic, will need to assure people it is safe to travel.
Small ship cruise operators have close relationships with the small communities they visit, and they don’t wish to go anywhere that would cause uncertainty. They are working with local and state municipalities to affirm details on ensuring the safety of not only passengers and crew, but the communities they come in contact with. Social distancing, sanitation and additional training are tops in priority.
Some of the steps the small ship cruise operators are taking include, but are not limited to:
- Pre-cruise, boarding and ongoing passenger and crew screening
- Enhanced cleaning procedures both onboard ships and ground operations with increased frequency
- Partnerships with healthcare operations to manage medical operations, support shipboard virus prevention, screen/test guests and crew before embarking and collaborate with ports and shoreside healthcare facilities
- Decreased passenger capacity to support social distncing
- Personal Protective Equipement (PPE) will be provided for passengers and crew as needed
Check with each individual supplier to determine the steps they are taking.
Here’s how some of the small ship cruise lines are addressing passenger and crew safety post-COVID-19.
Alaskan Dream Cruises
Latest updates from Alaska Dream Cruises
As of May 5, 2020, Alaskan Dream Cruises’ 2020 season is currently scheduled to start July 1, when they hope it will be safe to give their guests the opportunity to experience True Alaska with True Alaskans.
American Cruise Lines
Latest updates from American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines was the first U.S. cruise line to suspend operations due to COVID-19 and they are committed to resuming travel only when it is safe for their guests, crew, and community partners. They currently plan to begin limited sailings in June 2020.
American Cruise Lines has also created “Cruise with Comfort,” offering guests with new and existing bookings for cruises departing March 9, 2020 through October 31, 2020 the ability to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours prior to the start of your Cruise Package and receive Cruise Vouchers equal to 100% of Amounts Paid.
American Queen Steamboat Company
Latest updates from American Queen Steamboat Company
American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) has temporarily suspended operations across all boats through June 21, 2020. The continue to monitor the continued wide-spread governmental restrictions across ports, cities and public institutions to determine when it’s best to begin sailing. Check their alerts page for updates.
Lindblad Expeditions
Latest updates from Lindblad Expeditions
Lindblad Expeditions has suspended all cruise operations and is providing flexible cancelation policies for current and future sailings. There is no word yet when they plan to begin sailings.
UnCruise Adventures
Latest updates from UnCruise Adventures
UnCruise Adventures is cancelling sailings on an ongoing basis. They are looking at mid-July to resume operations.
Victory Cruise Lines
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance, always suggested by travel agents, is more important than ever. Sunstone Tours & Cruises encourages travelers to look into travel insurance, including “cancel for any reason” policies.
