Royal Caribbean Readies Cruises to the Bahamas and Mexico for June – Vanity Fair

With more Americans getting vaccinated, the virus-incubating vacation option of choice, cruise ships, are preparing to start operations again this June. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line announced on Friday that 7-night experiences are available for those who have been inoculated against COVID-19.

Royal Caribbean's statement said the entire crew will be vaccinated, and only vaccinated adults may board. (Keep those little jab cards with your passport.) Those who are under the age of 18 with negative test results will be allowed to sail.

"The vaccines are clearly a game changer for all of us, and with the number of vaccinations and their impact growing rapidly, we believe starting with cruises for vaccinated adult guests and crew is the right choice," Michael Bayley, CEO (Fleet Admiral?) of Royal Caribbean said. The workers at the facilities of the quasi-private islands where cruise ships often stop for a day of sun and surf will be vaccinated as well.

"This is truly a new day for tourism. It should inspire many small- to medium-sized businesses, tour operators, taxi drivers, restaurants and retailers to prepare for brighter days ahead, the best we have ever had," said The Most Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line controls nearly one-fifth of the worldwide cruise market and maintains the four largest cruise ships on the seven seas. (Some of these ships are, indeed, larger than aircraft carriers, and they have better dining options, too!)

Though the announcement will no doubt bring confidence to consumers, it comes just as HBO prepares the release of The Last Cruise, essentially a real-life horror film that collects captured footage from passengers and crew on board a luxury liner just as the coronavirus outbreak began.

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Royal Caribbean Readies Cruises to the Bahamas and Mexico for June - Vanity Fair