Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) extended its Conditional Sailing Order (CSO) through Jan. 15, 2022. The CSO, which was originally introduced Oct. 30, 2020, provides a framework for how cruise lines are permitted to operate throughout the pandemic.
According to the CDC announcement, "this temporary extension includes minor modifications and applies to all commercial, non-cargo, foreign-flagged, passenger-carrying vessels currently operating or planning to operate in U.S. waters with the capacity to carry at least 250 individuals and with an itinerary anticipating an overnight stay onboard or a 24-hour stay onboard for either passengers or crew. After the expiration of this temporary extension, CDC intends to transition to a voluntary program, in coordination with the cruise ship operators and other stakeholders, to assist the cruise industry to detect, mitigate, and control the spread of COVID-19 onboard cruise ships.”
In response, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) issued a statement including language that indicates a hope that this will be the last of such extensions.
"The changes to the Framework for Conditional Sailing Order, announced today, show that the Biden Administration and the CDC recognize the cruise industry’s successful resumption of operations,” reads CLIA's statement. “We look forward to demonstrating the industry’s continued leadership in this final phase of the CSO, and to carrying out a smooth transition when the Order comes to an end on Jan. 15, 2022.”
The statement reiterates that cruising has successfully resumed in the U.S. with leading public health measures to mitigate the risk of COVID-19, among which are the means to monitor, detect and respond to potential cases.
"As a result, CLIA-member oceangoing cruise ships are sailing today with some of the highest levels of COVID-19 mitigation of any industry,” CLIA continued. “The health and safety of cruise passengers, crew members and destinations remain the industry’s highest priority. CLIA oceangoing cruise line members will continue to be guided by science and the principle of putting people first as we work with the Administration and the CDC to expand on our progress and build additional confidence in cruising as one of the safest vacation options, during the pandemic and beyond.”
CLIA-member oceangoing cruise ships are sailing today with some of the highest levels of COVID-19 mitigation of any industry. The health and safety of cruise passengers, crew members and destinations remain the industry’s highest priority.
CLIA further reminded industry insiders that the cruise industry contributes to the economic well-being of around 450,000 American jobs, especially in Alaska, California, Florida, Texas and New York.
"These accomplishments are the result of ongoing dialogue and collaboration with the Biden Administration, as well as our members’ strong commitment to making cruise a model for responsible travel,” CLIA added.
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Cruise Lines International Association
