Showing posts with label restrictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label restrictions. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Canada Drops Travel Requirements

Canada drops travel requirements

Updated: September 29, 2022

The Public Health Agency of Canada has released an official press release today, Monday, September 26, 2022, relaxing vaccination, and testing protocols for travel to Canada effective October 1, 2022.

 Statement

Today the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada. Effective October 1, 2022, all travelers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:

 

  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.

Transport Canada is also removing existing travel requirements. As of October 1, 2022, travelers will no longer be required to:

  • undergo health checks for travel on air and rail; or
  • wear masks on planes and trains.

Cruise measures are also being lifted, and travelers will no longer be required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines will remain to protect passengers and crew, which will align with the approach used in the United States.


Norwegian Cruise Line has updated its health & safety requirements.

 

Statement

Effective for sailings beginning September 30, 2022, all COVID-19 travel requirements, including vaccination, mandatory use of ArriveCAN, and any testing and quarantine/isolation protocols will no longer be required for travelers entering Canada by land, air or sea.


Norwegian Cruise Line 

Although Canada has lifted its COVID-19 travel requirements, including those specific to cruise passengers, all guests must still meet the following NCL embarkation requirements to board their upcoming cruise.

What You Need to Know

 Embarkation Requirements:

  • All guests ages 12 years and older, must provide proof of ONE of the following:
    • Proof of completed series of one-dose or two-dose vaccination regimen.
    • Proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or NAAT test (i.e., PCR) taken within three days of the embarkation date.
  • Guests 6 months to 11 years are welcome aboard with no restrictions.

Important Note: While Norwegian welcomes unvaccinated guests, it is the responsibility of the guest to be aware of any local protocols and/or travel restrictions in place at the visiting destinations at the time of sailing.

 

Resources


Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has released statements saying that they are ready to welcome all guests with Canada’s removal of all COVID-19 Requirements.

 Seabourn Statement

Seabourn is ready to welcome all guests on board its voyages that visit Canada with the news from Transport Canada, which announced it will end all COVID-19 entry and testing requirements for visitors traveling to Canada. The new guidance will make it easier for guests to plan and travel on Seabourn’s Alaska and Canada and New England voyages during the summer and fall seasons.

Seabourn is updating its health protocols to align with Transport Canada’s revised guidelines for select voyages departing on and after October 1, 2022.

“We welcome the decision by Transport Canada that will make it easier for travelers to sail on our Alaska and Canada and New England voyages,” said Josh Leibowitz, Seabourn’s president. “These spectacular destinations have so much to offer and are highly coveted areas to visit. We look forward to welcoming our guests on board our ultra-luxury ships and delivering special ‘Seabourn Moments’ when they sail with us.”

Celebrity Cruise Line


Celebrity Cruise Lines has updated its health & safety requirements for sailings visiting Canada.

 

Statement

Effective for sailings beginning October 1, 2022, we are welcoming all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, back onboard our sailings that visit Canada as long as they meet testing requirements to board.

 

What You Need to Know

 

Embarkation Requirements - Vaccinated Guests:

  • For all sailings 9 nights or shorter, no pre-boarding testing is required.
  • For all sailings 10 nights or longer, vaccinated guests ages 5 and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding.
    • Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted.
    • Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored.
    • Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot, or photo of the test result or the actual test.
    • Antibody tests are not accepted.

 

Embarkation Requirements - Unvaccinated Guests:

  • For all sailings guests ages 5 years and older, must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding.
    • Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted.
    • Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored.
    • Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot, or photo of the test result or the actual test.
    • Antibody tests are not accepted.

Important Note: While Celebrity welcomes unvaccinated guests, it is the responsibility of the guest to be aware of any local protocols and/or travel restrictions in place at the visiting destinations at the time of sailing.

 

Resources





I recently completed extensive training and have become Travel Safety Verified. As your dedicated Travel Advisor, your safety is our priority, and it's our job to ensure you have the necessary information you need to give you confidence and peace of mind when making your future travel plans. Click the link to review our Travel Safety program with valuable resources that will answer many of your questions.




Where have you explored? 

Gather your travel and food pics and join us every Wednesday afternoon at 4 PM Eastern for the latest installment of #FoodTravelChat





Friday, May 14, 2021

Quantum of the Seas Adjusts Protocols

Quantum of the Seas
Photo Credit:  Travel Weekly

According to a Reuters news story, Singapore's health ministry on Thursday reported 24 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, the highest daily number since mid-September, with 17 of the fresh cases linked to a cluster at Changi Airport. This has prompted changes onboard Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas which is sailing short cruises to nowhere out of Singapore.


Singapore Raises Alert Level


"Over the past two weeks several clusters of infections have emerged, coupled with a pattern of local unlinked community cases. These developments have demonstrated higher attack rates and secondary transmission occurs in “mask-off” settings, households, and at eateries. Given this, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce announced additional measures and restrictions under Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) to minimize transmission of the virus in a swift and decisive manner. These measures are additional measures to what was announced on 4 May 2021. 

To reduce risks of community transmission, indoor “mask-off” activities such as dine-in F&B establishments will cease. Other activities which will also not be allowed during this period include strenuous indoor exercise class or strenuous individual and group indoor sports and exercise activities. In addition, personalized services which require masks to be removed (e.g. facials and saunas), singing, and the playing of instruments that require intentional expulsion of air (e.g. wind or brass instruments) will also not be allowed. The following measures will take effect from Sunday, 16 May 2021 through to Sunday, 13 June 2021."

Royal Caribbean Adjust Protocols

Royal Caribbean quickly responded to the change in the alert level by notifying guests booked on Quantum of the Seas from May 17 - June 13 of the following changes:
  • Guest capacity is reduced to 25 percent occupancy. 
  • Groups are limited to two guests. This means that at most, the ship will have 1,025 passengers aboard. 
  • All restaurants are closed and guests will get room service options or "grab and go" from select restaurants aboard. 
  • Capacity for live entertainment shows will be reduced to a maximum of 50 guests and live singing will not be available. 
  • Permitted onboard activities, like those in Seaplex, Activity Zone and Pool Zone, will continue to operate at reduced capacity and with enhanced social distancing measures. 
  • Masks will be required in the indoor pool.

Mini Series Industry News

Stay Updated on Recent 
Cruise Industry 
& Other Travel News

Click Image for Related Posts




I recently completed extensive training and have become Travel Safety Verified. As your dedicated Travel Advisor, your safety is our priority, and it's our job to ensure you have the necessary information you need to give you confidence and peace of mind when making your future travel plans. Click the link to review our Travel Safety program with valuable resources that will answer many of your questions.




Where have you explored? 

Gather your travel and food pics and join us every Wednesday night for the latest installment of #FoodTravelChat


Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Large Ships Banned from Venice Lagoon


Venice
Cruise Ship
Restrictions 
2014 & Beyond

Shortly after the Concordia disaster, the government of Italy and various organizations rekindled their efforts to restrict cruise traffic in the Venice Lagoon.   A law was passed that banned large cruise ships from passing close to Italian shores.  It was to be a countrywide restriction, but due to the large tourism industry in Venice, the law was suspended temporarily.

Effective November 2014

According to the press reports out of Italy, officials have now banned large cruise ships (over 96,000
tons) from the Venice Lagoon starting in November, 2014.  This doesn't mean that cruise ships won't be visiting Venice, but rather cruise ship traffic will be rerouted perhaps through the Contorta Sant'Angelo Canal, which is farther away from the best-known parts of the city.

This scene, taken during our Mediterranean cruise which included Venice, will be a thing of the past.  Until that time, we highly suggest you take advantage of cruises that include a stop in Venice and be sure to get up early as the ship sails into the lagoon.

Starting January 2014

Even before the ban goes into effect late next year, there are other restrictions that will begin starting at the beginning of the year.  The number of cruise ships 40,000 tons or more sailing in Venetian waters must be reduced to 20 percent of the current volume.  That limit means no more than 5 cruise ships over 40,000 tons would be in port on any given day during the cruise season.

Cruise lines will continue to include Venice in their itineraries, but they will have to make alternative plans, perhaps including tendering, in order to make that possible.   What will be gone however is the sail by of attractions such as Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Square.   When that is in effect, we suggest that you be sure to take a water taxi so that you are still able to see the city from the water.  That is a perspective that is one you will cherish forever.

We have been following this developing story for some time now.  We've included links to some of our previous articles.  Also, be sure to visit our post, Diary of Cruise with Chris to Greek Isles, for more information about Venice and ports that we visited.


Related Blog Posts:

Future of Cruise Ships in Venice
Concordia Disaster Rekindles Venice Restrictions
Sailing Into Venice by Cruise Ship

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Carnvial in Middle of Venice Controversy


Carnival Sunshine
Too Close to Shore?

According to reports in the Italian press, an alleged incident involving Carnival Sunshine has triggered cries from Andrea Marcucci, head of Italy's Senate committee on art and culture, to ban cruise ships from sailing in the Venice lagoon.

This is not a new controversy.  We reported news about this shortly after the Costa Concordia shipwreck in our article Concordia Disaster Rekindles Venice Restrictions.  Even before then, there had been concerns raised about the harm done by cruise ships in Venice.

Claims Unfounded

British tabloids "The Telegraph" and "The Daily Mail"  broke the news citing information contained in the Italian news agency ANSA's article from July 29th.  Carnival Cruise Lines, The Italian Coast Guard and others contend that the alleged "sail by" did not occur.   

The interesting thing is that cruise line captains are not under the control of their vessels when they enter the Venice lagoon.   A pilot boards the vessel and takes control.  So, even if the news were true, it would not be the fault of the captain, but rather that of the pilot who should know the waters.

In addition, the ship is guided by two tugs, one in front and one in the rear of the ship.   Therefore, it is highly unlikely that all these local operators would steer the vessel too close to port.

Sailing into Venice in the early morning is a magnificent event.  It would be a shame if some hidden agendas prevented ships from seeing this perspective of Venice.

View our photo album on our Facebook Fan Page:
Arriving in Venice by Cruise Ship
 

Monday, August 27, 2012

Not Only Weather Impacting Port of Tampa

Tampa Port Authority

More Woes for Cruise Travelers This Week in Tampa

If you've been following our blog, you know that the Tampa Port Authority closed the port in anticipation of the approach of Tropical Storm Isaac.   That isn't the only thing impacting cruise line schedules this week.  Give yourself plenty of extra time to arrive at the port.

The 2012 Republican National Convention is in town from Monday through Thursday.

Important Update - Carnival Paradise 8/25/12, Carnival Legend 8/26/12, Carnival Paradise 8/30/12

Important Update for all guests sailing on the Carnival Paradise 8/30/12:

The 2012 Republican National Convention (RNC) will be held in Tampa the week of your sailing. Local authorities have advised us road closures and parking restrictions are expected.  There will also be intermittent traffic delays and temporary closures on interstate roads and throughout the downtown area beginning Saturday, August, 25, through Thursday, August 30.  A map indicating road closures is available at www.tampagov.net/rnc.

We suggest you avoid routes that take you through downtown Tampa. Cruise ship passengers are asked to use the following detour:

– Take I-4 Exit 1
– Go south on 21st Street and turn west onto Adamo Drive
– Turn south onto Channelside Drive
– Passengers may utilize the Port of Tampa parking garage

Given traffic restrictions planned for this week, check-in for your cruise is now scheduled from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and we will sail shortly thereafter. It is essential you allow ample time to arrive at the terminal early enough to ensure you are not left behind.

We’d like to apologize in advance for any congestion you may experience at the terminal as a result of the new check-in times. To expedite the boarding process, please ensure you have completed your online check-in prior to arriving.

To stay up to date on any changes that may affect our departure, we encourage you to sign up for text alerts by texting the following number for your specific sailing:

Carnival Paradise 8/30/12 - text CCL3 to CRUISE (278473)

If you have already signed up for text during your online check-in, you will automatically receive updates. 

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Concordia Disaster Rekindles Venice Restrictions

Seabourn Spirit Docked in Venice, Italy
Seabourn Spirit Docked in Venice, Italy
Could Concordia Disaster Impact Cruises to Venice

UNESCO has called on the Italian government to restrict access of large cruise ships to culturally and ecologically important areas, particularly Venice and its Lagoon which are visited by some 300 large cruise ships a year.

 

Star Princess Docked next to Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas in Venice
Arriving in Venice on Star Princess
Docked Next to RCCL Voyager of the Seas

UNESCO World Heritage Site - Venice
In a letter sent to the Italian Environment Minister on behalf of Director-General Irina Bokova, the Assistant Director-General for Culture Francesco Bandarin writes that “the tragic accident [of the Costa Concordia on 13 January] reinforces longstanding concern over the risk that large cruise liners pose to sites inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, particularly the Venice Lagoon and the Basin of San Marco." 

After presenting UNESCO’s condolences for the tragic loss of life caused by Costa Concordia accident and praising the efforts of the rescue teams and local population in dealing with the disaster, the letter urges the government to act quickly to develop alternative plans for maritime traffic around the World Heritage site of Venice. 

UNESCO contends that the cruise liner traffic in Venice is particularly damaging because of the fragile structure of the city. The ships cause water tides that erode the foundations of buildings. They contribute to pollution and impact the cityscape as they dwarf monuments in the heart of the city.

Arriving in Venice by Cruise Ship
Venice Canals from Star Princess Deck
 Sailing into Venice

Those that follow our blog on a regular basis know that we were on Star Princess last May/June for a 12 Night Greek Isles & Mediterranean Cruise - Rome to Venice. Our captain urged us to be up on the outside decks before 7 AM to see the ship entering into Venice harbor.   It was an amazing sight - seeing Venice from a different perspective.

View our photo album on our Facebook Fan Page:
Arriving in Venice by Cruise Ship
As you can see from these images, the pier where we were docked was far from the heart of the city. In fact, one must take a water taxi or use the people mover to get into the city proper.

What Does the Future Hold

UNESCO's plea is not a new one, but it seems to have some new life as Italy's environment minister, Corrado Clini, appeared to take up the cause Tuesday.

"The aim is to free St. Mark's basin from the big ships once new canals have been dug," Clini was quoted by the Italian news agency ANSA as saying during a public appearance in northern Italy.

But Clini added that "in the meantime, it will be up to the port authority and to the city to decide which (sea) traffic is sustainable and compatible" with Venice's particular situation."

Venice officials have said that since tug boats guide the big cruise ships through the part of the lagoon weaving through the city, the risk of accidents is virtually eliminated.

In a city where "cars" are replaced by gondolas and small water craft, it is unthinkable that there could be a ban on larger vessels.   Let us hope that the cruise industry, UNESCO, and Italian authorities can work out a plan which protects Venice for years to come and still allows future generations the pleasure of seeing this amazing city of canals from the perspective of a cruise ship.

If a Mediterranean cruise, that includes Venice, is on your bucket list, you might want to plan that trip now in case restrictions are indeed put in place in the near future.



Med & Greek Isles Cruise Diary

Additional photos can be found on our Facebook Albums.




Click on the image to the left for more Blog posts about this trip.





@ChrisPappinMCC


Connect With Us On


Sign-up for Exclusive Email Offers



Where have you explored? 

Gather your travel and food pics and join us every Wednesday night for the latest installment of #FoodTravelChat