'It'll be safer onboard a cruise ship than at your local shopping centre,' cruise boss says
"It's all about giving people confidence to cruise again," says the executive from Carnival cruise lines.
Cruise ships are on their way back to Australia ready for the first cruise next month.
"Cruising will be the same, but different," said David Jones, whose company Carnival has seven brands including Cunard, P&O and Princess.
David Jones' company Carnival has seven brands including Cunard, P&O and Princess. A Current Affair
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It's been two years since cruise ships were banished from our shores after the fatal outbreak onboard the Ruby Princess.
"In the two-year suspension we have reviewed things top to bottom," he said.
And he added: "It'll be safer onboard a cruise ship than at your local shopping centre."
Cruises will soon be back. A Current Affair
COVID-19 safety protocols have been put in place on cruises. A Current Affair
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Aside from the requirement for all passengers to be vaccinated, cruise companies will demand all passengers be tested before embarkation.
Some lines will also do testing at sea.
Open buffets are gone and instead food will be served by staff who are now trained in COVID-19 protocols.
Cruise COVID-19 safety protocols. A Current Affair
Avid cruisers Ed and Patrea Stuttard. A Current Affair
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Air flow and purification has been improved.
Social distancing will be in place - where it can be with such things as staggered meal times - and when it can't be such - as in theatres - masks will be required.
"That won't turn us away," said avid cruisers Ed and Patrea Stuttard, who will be on the first cruise out of Sydney on May 31.
"We can't wait."
Penny Spencer, of Spencer Travel. A Current Affair
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Travel agents too, are chomping at the bit.
"Our phones and emails have been running hot since the announcement of the lifting of the ban," Penny Spencer, of Spencer Travel said.
For the time being cruises will be domestic, as ships, crews and passengers get the feel for cruising with COVID-19.
In the meantime cruise lines are having discussions with South Pacific neighbours about future visits.
But for now as Jones said: "We're back and passengers can't wait for it to begin."
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