Great news! Avalon Waterways is back in the water! We are your resource for the most up to date information around vaccination & testing requirements, whether you will need a mask, taking shore excursions, and health & safety measurements taken by the cruise line.
Do I need a vaccine to travel on an Avalon Cruise?
All passengers must show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to sail or proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken no earlier than 72 hours before travel. Alternately, passengers can show proof that they have recovered from a confirmed case of COVID-19 within three months of travel.
We do not collect vaccination cards or store proof of vaccination. Those cruise lines that have vaccine requirements to cruise will likely ask for proof at the time of boarding.
Things to know:
- Without one of these verifications, travelers will not be able to join a planned vacation with Globus, Cosmos, Avalon Waterways or Monograms.
- All crew will be vaccinated
- All international travelers are fully vaccinated before joining our cruises
Please note that these guidelines are subject to change.
Do I need to wear a mask?
Guests will have to follow all local guidance at the destinations we visit, including testing/health screening, mask wearing, physical distancing and organized/independent activities.
Things to know:
- Direction and details on social distancing throughout your cruise while masks are not worn
- All guests should carefully review pre-booking and pre-travel health advice on our website and the website of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Crew will be wearing masks for the duration of the cruise during any guest interaction
- Guest will be provided masks to wear during any event where social proximity could become an issue, including disembarkation for excursions and safety drills
Can I get off the ship at port?
It is more than likely that you will need a booked shore excursion to get off the ship once you arrive at port.
Our shore excursions include expedited entry into must-see attractions, which means no waiting in long, crowded queues of people. For moments when touch is necessary, hand sanitizers are at-the-ready throughout each ship and on our vehicles.
Things to know:
- Avalon will adjust the ratio of guides and coaches for excursions, as required, accounting for safe distances while in port.
- Guests must follow the health protocols for every port we visit
- Guides have extensive local knowledge to help enjoy your destination safely, including information on navigating your shore excursions with confidence, as well as a host of independent exploration options.
These restrictions are under the control of local government and are subject to change without advance notice, so we encourage guests to come prepared for potential mask requirements ashore.
Health & Safety on the Ship
Avalon has put in place enhanced cleaning procedures throughout each ship, such as these additional steps that go above-and-beyond Avalon’s already strict procedures.
Self-serve stations, including buffets, drinks, specialty coffees and snacks have been replaced with crew service. All buffets (breakfast and lunch) replaced by crew service or a full range of à la carte menu choices
Things to know:
- Luggage disinfection prior to boarding the ship (with our team wearing gloves and masks)
- Use of electrostatic disinfecting systems
- Disinfection of all dining areas between meals
- Disinfection of all shared items like umbrellas, bicycles and other Adventure Center items
- Disinfection of all goods prior to loading on the ship
- Ongoing crew training in protective equipment use and hygiene
- Deep disinfection of each stateroom between cruises, including:
- Use of disinfectants and cleaning materials that meet or exceed the highest CDC standards
- Soft goods in each stateroom (mattress, sofa, window coverings, chairs, etc.) sanitized between cruises.
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Check here for the most up to date information on each Cruise Destination, including vaccination requirements, mask mandates, shore excursions, and insurance requirements.