Princess Cruises has confirmed that guests will need a vaccine to travel with the line on its UK coastal sailings this summer.

The move mirrors the policy of sister brand P&O Cruises. All passengers will also need travel insurance.

All guests and crew will be required to follow enhanced health measures, including social distancing and the wearing of masks in certain areas of the ship.

Crew will also undergo a strict testing and quarantine regime as well as regular testing during their time on board.

Regal Princess will offer 14 UK voyages, running from 31 July through to 23 September 2021, while Sky Princess will depart on eight cruises, from 30 August through to 28 September.

The line plans to stop in Liverpool, Belfast and Greenock, with itineraries ranging from three to seven nights.

Cruises go on sale on 24 March. Bookings made by 30 April 2021 will be covered by the line’s Book with Confidence policy, meaning guests can cancel up to 30 days prior to sailing and receive cancellation fees back as a future cruise credit.

Princess Cruises UK and Europe vice-president Tony Roberts said: “We share in our guests’ excitement today as we unveil the details for our new Summer Seacations. With Princess Cruises, the ship is also the destination.

“Guests can make the most of our multiple dining options, order food and drink poolside, using the MedallionClass app, that can be delivered to you, and enjoy fantastic entertainment both day and night.

“These resort-style seacations offer the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy some time off. We believe that these cruises will appeal to both our loyal guests who are eager to get back on board our beautiful MedallionClass ships and holidaymakers looking to experience Princess for the first time.

“While international travel remains uncertain, these new cruises mean that UK residents can take a well-deserved holiday around the UK. We are also delighted that our new cruises will offer the choice between scenic voyages and port-of-call itineraries where guests can visit the historic UK cities of Liverpool, Belfast and Glasgow.”

• Read CTN editor Gary Peters’ thoughts on how domestic voyages are providing new hope for the cruise sector.