Virgin Voyages has made several updates to its health and safety protocols. The cruise line will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, and only unvaccinated guests will need to present a negative test result. If guests are not fully vaccinated, they must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to sailing. If they cannot get tested in time, guests can also get tested at the terminal for $30 on the day of embarkation. Guests must be tested before sailing at all times, regardless of vaccination status.
From September 18 on the Valiant Lady and from September 21 on board the Scarlet Lady, guests will no longer need to provide proof of vaccination to board either ship.
In a statement, the cruise line said: “In accordance with our industry standards and with consideration and guidance from the CDC, we are adjusting our protocols. Starting September 18, 2022, on the Valiant Lady and September 21, 2022, on the Scarlet Lady, we are opening our voyages to everyone, including those who are not vaccinated.”
Crew members on board will continue to be fully vaccinated and will undergo regular testing.
Virgin Voyages will allow booked guests to change their travel dates if a guest tests positive or has been exposed within ten days of departure. Guests can also opt for a full future travel credit to use on a later booking. The same applies if guests test positive at the terminal; guests can rebook or receive a credit for a future trip.
Guests who test positive while on board will receive a prorated amount based on the number of days they missed. Once positive guests disembark the ship, and if quarantine on land is required, Virgin Voyages will cover the cost of the quarantine hotel and any changes to travel arrangements.
The Scarlet Lady currently offers four- and five-night itineraries departing from Miami, Florida. The ship cruises the Eastern Caribbean, sailing to Puerto Plata and Bimini, and the Western Caribbean, sailing to Cozumel and Bimini.
The Valiant Lady currently offers seven-night cruises from Barcelona, Spain. Starting October 16, it will relocate to Miami, Florida, with the first cruise from Miami scheduled for October 30.
