Carnival Cruise Line has updated its Covid testing protocols.

The line will no longer require fully vaccinated guests to test on sailings of fewer than 16 nights, while unvaccinated guests are no longer required to apply for a vaccine exemption, except for cruises in Australia or on voyages 16 nights and longer.

Unvaccinated will also need proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within three days of embarkation.

All new guidelines are effective for cruises departing from 6 September and onwards.

A ‘positive’ move for Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy said: “Our ships have been sailing very full all summer, but there is still room for more of our loyal guests, and these guidelines will make it a simpler process, and make cruising accessible for those who were not able to meet the protocols we were required to follow for much of the past 14 months.

“We’ve got lots happening, with Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Celebration joining our fleet this November and more to come in 2023.

“Whatever the ship, homeport or itinerary that works for you, our great on-board team is ready to deliver a fun vacation – something we all look forward to even more nowadays.

“We appreciate the patience of our guests and travel advisor partners as we update all materials, but the end result is a very positive one for all who are looking forward to cruising with us.”

Vaccinated will still need to provide evidence of their vaccination status prior to embarkation, while pre-cruise testing will be required for cruises to Canada, Bermuda, Greece and Australia (per local guidelines), and on voyages 16 nights or longer.

In July, Carnival held the keel-laying ceremony for its latest Excel-class ship Carnival Jubilee.