Windstar Cruises will lift its COVID-19 vaccine requirement on June 1, no longer requiring guests to be vaccinated against the virus in order to sail with the small ship cruise line.
Crew, however, will still be required to be vaccinated and will be tested upon their first arrival at work during their first week, and thereafter as needed.
“We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”
Windstar will continue to carry diagnostic tests on board for guests and remains committed to onboard cleanliness and sanitation measures, including accessible and well-stocked handwashing stations plus sanitiser dispensers. Though vaccinations are no longer required, Windstar recommends that guests remain up to date.
Prompted by the pandemic, the line has invested millions in upgrading the entire six-ship fleet’s heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems.
Windstar is represented in South Africa by Cruises International and Development Promotions.
