Ahead of Celebrity Silhouette’s return to the UK this summer, Celebrity Cruises has revealed more information regarding the embarkation process and on-board experience.

The line said “a combination of vaccination, testing and an innovative app will keep crew and guests safe at sea”.

Embarkation in Southampton

Celebrity Silhouette will depart Southampton on its first sailing on 3 July with a fully vaccinated crew and guests (aged 18 and over). Vaccinated guests will also require proof of a negative PCR test taken 24–72 hours before the time of sailing.

Guests aged 3-17 will need to take an antigen test at the terminal prior to embarkation. The PCR and antigen tests required will be paid for by Celebrity Cruises.

All arrivals and departures will be staggered by appointment and guests will have the opportunity to select their preferred check-in times.

In addition, all guests, aged 11 and over, will be required to wear an appropriate face covering in the terminal and inside venues on board the ship, in line with UK government requirements. On the outer decks, inside their staterooms or while dining, guests will not be required to wear a face covering.

On-board experience

Once on board, Celebrity Cruises said its mobile app will “transform the important safety drill into a faster, more personal approach that guests can complete from the ultimate comfort of their own luxury stateroom”.

Called Muster 2.0, key elements of the drill, including where to go in case of an emergency and instructions on how to properly use a life jacket, will be accessible to guests via their mobile devices and stateroom TVs.

The app will also allow for speedier boarding, as guests will be able to complete the check-in process on their phones. It will also act as a digital key to staterooms and allow guests to book dining and shore excursions.

Celebrity said in a statement: “It is anticipated that guests will be permitted to debark Celebrity Silhouette and explore independently in ports of call where there are no restrictions put in place by port authorities or local government.

“With our rigorous attention on their wellbeing, these protocols will mean our guests can enjoy that long awaiting luxury holiday that they so deserve, free from worry and full of amazing experiences.”

Guests who have booked before 31 July 2021 can cancel for any reason up to 48 hours before departure on sailings through to 4 May 2022 and receive a 100 per cent future cruise credit, as part of the line’s Covid policy.