Big update that may affect Disney Cruise Line

A big update by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today may impact Disney Cruise Line. Read on for how this may affect future sailings.

Disney Cruise Line Protocols

Just like at theme parks and other destinations, Disney Cruise Line is constantly updating guidelines and protocol based on the current environment. Disney recently eliminated mask mandates and social distancing. In addition, self-serve buffets returned as well. You can read about those changes HERE.

At this time, vaccines and testing are still required for all guests to sail, but could a recent update to the CDC guidelines mean changes are coming our way?

Testing Requirements

Testing requirements have been in a constant state of change ever since cruises returned. We last updated you on the changes a few months ago in May.

For U.S. sailings, here is a look at the current testing requirements all guests must follow to even step onto the ship:

“Fully vaccinated Guests on sailings departing US and Canadian ports must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result (paid for by the Guest) taken no more than 2 days before setting sail to be exempt from embarkation testing at the terminal.

Guests ages 4 and under, who are not vaccine-eligible because of age, must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result (paid for by a parent or guardian) taken no more than 3 days before their sail date. Children ages 4 and under will also be required to complete a test at the terminal prior to embarkation (paid for by Disney Cruise Line).”

Face coverings are not required outside while on board the ship and at designated locations on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. They are optional in most indoor locations on the ship.

CDC Update for Cruise Ships

Today, the CDC released an update as of today, July 18, 2022 stating that “CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships is no longer in effect. CDC will continue to publish guidance to help cruise ships continue to provide a safer and healthier environment for passengers, crew and communities going forward.”

CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships is no longer in effect

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What does this mean for Disney?

What does this mean for Disney? Well, since cruise ships no longer have to follow the guidelines, it will be up to each individual cruise line on what guidance they want to follow for their guests and crew.

While the parks are inching towards a new “normal” more and more each day, Disney Cruise Line ships have been slower in returning to normal due to the guidance from the CDC. One huge difference in the cruises and the parks is that characters remain physically distanced from guests.

What do you think of the new update from the CDC? Do you feel like testing and vaccine requirements will stop for Disney Cruise Line? Do you want to see them stay or go? Tell us about it in the comments below or on our Facebook page.