American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) and Victory Cruise Lines have announced that all guests will need a Covid-19 vaccination to cruise with the lines.

Effective from 1 July 2021, the move is “the most prudent next step to ensure that we are providing the safest cruising experience possible”, said AQSC CEO and founder John Waggoner.

It follows a similar announcement by Saga, which has stated that all passengers need to have been vaccinated against Covid-19 at least 14 days before departure.

AQSC said that guests and crew will be required to present verified documentation of vaccination. It will apply to all those staying overnight on a ship.

In addition, “if the vaccine that guests and/or crew members are administered requires two doses, they will need to have received both doses before embarking”, a statement said.

As for the timing of a vaccination, the company said: “The majority of our guests represent the 65+ population, who are eligible now or will soon be eligible to receive the vaccination. If a guest is not able to receive both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine prior to their scheduled trip, we will rebook them for a future sailing at no charge.”

Other health and safety measures, such guest and crew testing and reduced capacity on board, will remain in place.

Waggoner added: “The health and safety of our guests, crew members and partners continues to remain our top priority. Vaccination requirement for both our guests and crew is the most prudent next step to ensure that we are providing the safest cruising experience possible.

“Our new vaccination requirement, coupled with comprehensive health and safety protocols and risk-free booking policy, will give our loyal guests another added level of assurance to join us as we return to sailing.”

• Read more about how vaccines will affect the cruise sector in the latest CTN Investigates special report.